The "PhyloCode" - - A Commentary - Mycological Society of America
The "PhyloCode" - - A Commentary - Mycological Society of America
The "PhyloCode" - - A Commentary - Mycological Society of America
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Newsletter <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Mycological</strong> <strong>Society</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>America</strong><br />
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Supplement to<br />
Mycologia<br />
Vol. 51(3)<br />
1 U U June 2000<br />
<strong>The</strong> "PhyloCode" - - A <strong>Commentary</strong><br />
by Scott A Redhead<br />
This is the$rst <strong>of</strong> a planned series <strong>of</strong> articles by systematists facing nomen-<br />
clatural instability caused by the recent explosion <strong>of</strong> DNA-based informa-<br />
tion. Below, DK Redhead, Curator <strong>of</strong> the Canadian <strong>Mycological</strong> Herbarium<br />
at Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada in Ottawa, considers the "PhyloCode"<br />
and questions the advisability <strong>of</strong> rushing to dismantle the current Linnaean-<br />
based International Code <strong>of</strong> Botanical Nomenclature.<br />
What is the PhyloCode? This has been a nagging question in my mind<br />
ever since I read the mini review by Hibbett & Donoghue (1998) in<br />
Mycologia. That article closed with the statement, "We hope that this essay<br />
will encourage mycologists to critically evaluate the alternatives, and per-<br />
haps join in the development <strong>of</strong> a new phylogenetic code <strong>of</strong> biological no-<br />
menclature." Via Email I discussed with David Hibbett the possibility <strong>of</strong><br />
initiating an open discussion in Inoculum for the purpose <strong>of</strong> alerting MSA<br />
members to this looming issue, and to explore its possible repercussions.<br />
I have been trained by guardians <strong>of</strong> the old school, but I am hardly what<br />
anyone would consider to be truly educated or scholarly. Anyone who knows<br />
Latin and has read any <strong>of</strong> my independent attempts to create a Latin diagno-<br />
sis should not be eating or drinking while doing so because they may well<br />
choke. I have also naively tried to follow and apply (without trying conser-<br />
vation - another option available) the International Code <strong>of</strong> Botanical No-<br />
menclature (ICBN) to the letter, and always try to accredit the first author or<br />
scientist properly. Never does one suffer so much ridicule as when they play<br />
with nomenclature. <strong>The</strong>refore, I have been seasoned by my experiences. I<br />
know the system is not perfect and probably never will be. That being said,<br />
I also know that it works not too badly, normally. It works well enough for<br />
us to get on with everyday taxonomy and to apply the taxonomy to other<br />
human endeavours such as surveys, antibiotic testing, determinations <strong>of</strong><br />
pathogens, labeling <strong>of</strong> foods, and so on. So I am skeptical when I hear <strong>of</strong><br />
people wishing to overthrow an established system. Yet I am also intrigued<br />
when I hear there is this new system; doubly so, because several <strong>of</strong> my<br />
colleagues are working on phylogenetic analyses and have asked me to as-<br />
sist with the conclusions and nomenclature and taxonomy, and I have seen<br />
some <strong>of</strong> the major changes coming.<br />
But where is the PhyloCode? All practising taxonomists should pay at-<br />
tention to what is happening, I learned. To begin with, the PhyloCode is<br />
under construction. It does not yet exist. It may in the future, but it doesn't<br />
right now. <strong>The</strong>refore, to test it or to buy into it is very difficult. If I am<br />
wrong, I hope someone points it out to us, because I would like to test this<br />
new code as soon as possible. <strong>The</strong> latest works appeared in two journals,<br />
Taron and Systematic Biology, in 1999 and 2000, respectively. Cantino (1999)<br />
published a follow-up to a session held at the XVI International Botanical<br />
Congress (IBC) in St. Louis. <strong>The</strong> symposium he helped to organise drew a<br />
very large crowd and was one <strong>of</strong> the more contentious symposia held at the
<strong>Commentary</strong><br />
IBC. Cantino, in publishing this article,<br />
stated that he realised they had failed to<br />
"...allay possible concerns about the prac-<br />
tical ramifications <strong>of</strong> the new system" at<br />
the IBC, and he made it clear that the<br />
PhyloCode is under development, and<br />
that it will be "a code <strong>of</strong> phylogenetic<br />
nomenclature."<br />
<strong>The</strong> idea <strong>of</strong> 'phylogenetic nomencla-<br />
ture' is attributed first to an article by<br />
are not the subject <strong>of</strong> this paper; they<br />
are members <strong>of</strong> a fundamentally<br />
different category <strong>of</strong> biological entities<br />
than monophyletic taxa." Basically,<br />
what they were discussing were<br />
cladograms with the ultimate ends cut<br />
<strong>of</strong>f (the presumed interbreeding<br />
individuals within populations). If you<br />
are a skeptic like me, you get an uneasy<br />
feeling this might be the first step in<br />
What is a family?<br />
What is a genus?<br />
What is an order?<br />
Or to put them other ways,<br />
at what point on a cladogram does one use<br />
an order name,<br />
a family name,<br />
or a generic name?<br />
de Queiroz & Gauthier (1992), entitled<br />
"Phylogenetic Taxonomy," a term<br />
coined to cover a branch <strong>of</strong> 'phyloge-<br />
netic systematics.' <strong>The</strong> authors -<br />
zoologists apparently primarily<br />
concerned with reptiles - realized that<br />
taxonomists face great challenges now<br />
that DNA sequencing technology has<br />
been improved and previously unimag-<br />
inable analyses and tests are available<br />
and revealing new relationships. <strong>The</strong>y<br />
correctly perceived that there would be<br />
a problem in trying to name all<br />
supposed monophyletic lineages (or<br />
clades). <strong>The</strong>re simply are not enough<br />
taxonomic categories to cover all<br />
possible relationships. <strong>The</strong>re being a<br />
shortage <strong>of</strong> terms and classical taxo-<br />
nomic categories, they also correctly<br />
perceived that there would be contro-<br />
versy over applying the existing names<br />
to different levels. What is a family?<br />
What is a genus? What is an order? Or<br />
to put them other ways, at what point<br />
on a cladogram does one use an order<br />
name, a family name, or a generic<br />
name?<br />
It is important to note that theirs was<br />
a philosophical paper. It should also be<br />
noted that they specifically excluded<br />
species (p. 45 1): "Furthermore,<br />
populations <strong>of</strong> interbreeding organisms<br />
losing touch with reality. However,<br />
sometimes it is best to approach<br />
problems from a new direction. What I<br />
felt I needed to get a better feel for<br />
where this is going, were some<br />
concrete examples, because the<br />
PhyloCode was beginning to sound like<br />
a new s<strong>of</strong>tware being advertised but<br />
still under developme'nt.<br />
<strong>The</strong> articles in Systematic Biology<br />
<strong>of</strong>fer several more tangible examples.<br />
One is a philosophical discussion <strong>of</strong><br />
how such a code might address the<br />
'species' name issue (Cantino et al.<br />
1999). <strong>The</strong> abstract begins, "Linnaean<br />
binomial nomenclature is logically<br />
incompatible with the phylogenetic<br />
nomenclature <strong>of</strong> de Queiroz and<br />
Gauthier (1992) ...." Of course if you<br />
design a nomenclatural system that<br />
excludes the interbreeding organisms,<br />
you have excluded what most call<br />
species; ergo, you have created an<br />
incompatible nomenclatural system.<br />
This should not be news. <strong>The</strong>ir paper<br />
presents 13 different ways to name<br />
species (however you define a species).<br />
A key to the 13 different ways to name<br />
species (and how to convert old names<br />
into new names) is provided. Currently,<br />
we use one as provided by the ICBN.<br />
We create a species epithet and attach it<br />
2<br />
--<br />
to a generic name to create a binomial.<br />
Application <strong>of</strong> the binomial is anchored<br />
to a type (a sort <strong>of</strong> touchstone). We<br />
must never go so far that we lose touch<br />
with our anchorlstone. If you are at all<br />
concerned with where taxonomy might<br />
head, you should read this paper. If you<br />
were concerned when you sat in the<br />
audience in St. Louis, I daresay you<br />
will still be concerned. <strong>The</strong> different<br />
proposals for naming species were<br />
made by the different authors. <strong>The</strong>y are<br />
for discussion. Apparently, they could<br />
not agree upon a set technique. <strong>The</strong>y<br />
involve running generic and specific<br />
names together or combining them in<br />
various ways or ... adding numbers or<br />
code letters, and so on. <strong>The</strong>re is<br />
continual reference to "the PhyloCode"<br />
or "a PhyloCode name," but <strong>of</strong> course<br />
there is no PhyloCode. This is the<br />
generation <strong>of</strong> such a code. After<br />
reading it I remained skeptical. It still<br />
sounds like a s<strong>of</strong>tware company that I<br />
would not invest in because the<br />
product, still under development, faces<br />
major obstacles.<br />
Two other articles reinforced my<br />
skepticism. Both were applications <strong>of</strong><br />
these phylogenetic systematics prin-<br />
ciples as regarding nomenclature<br />
following taxonomic revisions. I<br />
looked up and read a paper by Jackman<br />
et al. (1999) co-authored by one <strong>of</strong> the<br />
original authors <strong>of</strong> "Phylogenetic<br />
Taxonomy" (de Queiroz). <strong>The</strong> authors<br />
<strong>of</strong> this paper, which reports on phylo-<br />
genetic relationships in lizards (specifi-<br />
cally Anolis lizards), investigated<br />
dozens <strong>of</strong> 'species' (whatever they are),<br />
and demonstrated that at least three<br />
other 'genera' were nested within the<br />
Anolis clade. In this paper, at least, they<br />
appeared not to change any traditional<br />
taxonomy. To quote from their discus-<br />
sion, "Our data suggest that<br />
Phenacosaurus, Chamaelinorps, and<br />
Chamaeleolis are all nested within<br />
Anolis and therefore all should be<br />
synonymised with Anolis. If taxonomic<br />
recognition is restricted to groups that<br />
are clearly monophyletic, the only<br />
alternative under the traditional<br />
nomenclatural system to recognizing<br />
all anoles as Anolis is to divide the
genus into at least 17 genera, an option<br />
we do not recommend. Alternatively,<br />
under the phylogenetic approach to<br />
nomenclature proposed by de Queiroz<br />
and Gauthier (1992), all these names<br />
are dissociated from the taxonomic<br />
category genus, and therefore they all<br />
can be used ...." As no names were<br />
changed, the latter option seems to<br />
have been adopted. It was impossible<br />
to tell if any <strong>of</strong> the species in the nested<br />
genera were ever previously placed in<br />
Anolis or any other genus. No authori-<br />
ties or nomenclators were supplied. I<br />
could have checked references but<br />
didn't want to have to request literature<br />
on lizards on loan.<br />
Fair enough. <strong>The</strong> previous example<br />
was pretty benign. Nothing changed.<br />
But another author, a believer in the<br />
nonexistent PhyloCode, published what<br />
has to be viewed as a bold, highly<br />
controversial, yet necessary example <strong>of</strong><br />
what may be in store. It was the title<br />
that alerted me, "Phylogenetic tax-<br />
onomy, a farewell to species, and a<br />
revision ...." (Pleijel, 1999). I needed to<br />
read no further to know I needed to<br />
look at this one. What did he mean by<br />
'farewell to species'? Published in the<br />
same issue as the discussion on 13<br />
ways to name species, this author, a<br />
specialist on worms, grabbed the bull<br />
by the horns, and decided to apply a<br />
new methodology for naming what<br />
others might call a species (whatever<br />
they are). <strong>The</strong> author uses only<br />
uninomials for his taxa. To quote from<br />
the abstract, '"Taxon names are defined<br />
by apomorphy-based phylogenetic<br />
definitions, without reference to<br />
Linnean ranks or types. Species entities<br />
are omitted and denied any role in<br />
taxonomy; taxon names refer to<br />
monophyletic groups only." This I hac!<br />
to see. It was either exciting or scary, or<br />
both. Keeping in mind I know virtually<br />
nothing about worm taxonomy and<br />
only a smidgen about the International<br />
Code <strong>of</strong> Zoological Nomenclature, I<br />
gave myself some latitude for my<br />
confusion over terminology. But even<br />
that latitude did not prepare me for<br />
what I read.<br />
On page 756, the author talks about<br />
five previously described taxa in such a<br />
way that not even their own authors<br />
would recognise them? <strong>The</strong>y were<br />
referred to as "Heteromorpha<br />
Hartmann-Schrijder, 1962; Africana<br />
Hartrnann-Schroder, 1974; etc. Pleijel<br />
then notes, "To these I add two new<br />
parts from Papua New Guinea and<br />
Belize."<br />
Parts <strong>of</strong> what?, I asked myself. And<br />
what is a part? It would appear to be<br />
equivalent to a taxon, but without any<br />
designation <strong>of</strong> rank, hence the non-<br />
informative word, "part." And what<br />
were Heteromorpha and Africana?<br />
<strong>The</strong>y looked like they might be generic<br />
names. <strong>The</strong>y are not. But what are<br />
they? <strong>The</strong> beauty <strong>of</strong> the system is that<br />
they are nothings or everythings. <strong>The</strong>y<br />
are rankless and unchanging in name if<br />
you decide there are more divisions to<br />
be made. <strong>The</strong>y simply exist (on a<br />
cladogram, in a computer, or in this<br />
paper, and maybe in nature). Actually,<br />
both Heteromorpha and Africana exist<br />
elsewhere in the literature under other<br />
guises. It seems that Africana is also<br />
known as Heteropodarke<br />
heteromorpha africana Hartmann-<br />
Schroder, a subspecific taxon as<br />
reported by the original author, while<br />
Heteromorpha is, as you may be<br />
guessing, Heteropodarke heteromorpha<br />
<strong>Commentary</strong><br />
consider the following. <strong>The</strong> author<br />
erected a new name (for what I do not<br />
know, because there are no species, no<br />
genera, no ranks, only a monophyletic<br />
clade). He called it "Bidentata, new<br />
taxon." It is represented by some<br />
collections, none <strong>of</strong> which is a type or<br />
the zoological equivalent. It falls<br />
outside <strong>of</strong> the ICZN, so it is not a good<br />
name under that code. One immediate<br />
benefit is that if you are a mycologist<br />
but want to formally name a worm, you<br />
have just been handed a wonderful<br />
opportunity.<br />
So what is Bidentata? If we follow<br />
his system, we should consider giving<br />
this same name to a whole variety <strong>of</strong><br />
other organisms (or coin new names or<br />
attach a lot <strong>of</strong> coding letters). I did a<br />
quick search on Biosis for "bidentata."<br />
<strong>The</strong>re were 217 hits in my first search,<br />
and the first 20 abstracts revealed that<br />
"bidentata" has been used by a lot <strong>of</strong><br />
zoologists and a few botanists. <strong>The</strong>re is<br />
Dipolydora bidentata, a polychaete;<br />
Manikara bidentata, an earthworm;<br />
Microstachys bidentata, a member <strong>of</strong><br />
the Euphorbiaceae; Dentitheca<br />
bidentata, a hydrozoan; Drepanomonas<br />
bidentata, a ciliate protozoan;<br />
Pseudoperomyia bidentata, a fly;<br />
Myrella bidentata, something floating<br />
with plankton; Obelia bidentata, a<br />
hydroid; Thagria bidentata, a cicada;<br />
At this stage I gave up. I've heard there was once a<br />
Linnaean genus <strong>of</strong> worms called Chaos.<br />
<strong>The</strong> thought simply popped into my head ....<br />
Hartmann-SchrCider. Within the<br />
confines <strong>of</strong> Pleijel's paper you can<br />
figure this out, but should Pleijel or<br />
some other author publish a few more<br />
papers some distance from this one<br />
simply using Africana or<br />
Heteromorpha, I predict nobody will<br />
know what he is talking about. <strong>The</strong><br />
author suggests using the existing r<br />
species (or subspecies) epithet alone,<br />
followed by a letter (an abbreviation) to<br />
clarify any confusion if there is more<br />
than one taxon (?part) with the same<br />
epithet, e.g., "Flexuosus (0.)" derived<br />
from Ophiodromusflexuosus. But<br />
3<br />
Pygolampsis bidentata, a true bug;<br />
Dynamene bidentata, an isopod; and<br />
Berberis bidentata, a Barberry. If each<br />
were to become Bidentata, then we<br />
would have Bidentata (D.), Bidentata<br />
(M.), Bidentata (M2.), Bidentata (D2.),<br />
Bidentata (D3.), Bidentata (P.),<br />
Bidentata (M3.), Bidentata (O.),<br />
Bidentata (T.), Bidentata (P2.),<br />
Bidentata (D4.), and Bidentata (El.).<br />
At this stage I gave up. I've heard<br />
there was once a Linnaean genus <strong>of</strong><br />
worms called Chaos. <strong>The</strong> thought<br />
simply popped into my head ....
<strong>Commentary</strong><br />
If there is to be a phylocode, it should<br />
be well thought out, tested, and<br />
available for scrutiny. I cannot buy into<br />
a poorly thought out concept or<br />
philosophy until that is done. An<br />
informal system <strong>of</strong> naming clades is<br />
fine. It can easily operate in parallel to<br />
the established system. But to use<br />
names such as Bidentata or Africana as<br />
if they existed within the established<br />
botanical, zoological, or bacterial<br />
nomenclatures, is likely to cause<br />
Chaos, the worm, to turn.<br />
<strong>The</strong> purpose <strong>of</strong> my essay is to alert<br />
mycologists to what is developing, and<br />
to open up a channel for discussion in a<br />
semi-informal manner here in Inocu-<br />
lum. I may be operating under a<br />
misconception about the PhyloCode.<br />
By placing these thoughts down on<br />
paper (and the WWW via Inoculum and<br />
on the MSA webpage), others can<br />
respond and educate me (and the rest <strong>of</strong><br />
us), and perhaps, by exposing weak-<br />
nesses or misinterpretations, possibly<br />
help by tightening up the wording <strong>of</strong><br />
the forthcoming PhyloCode. <strong>The</strong><br />
bottom line is, the promoters <strong>of</strong> the<br />
PhyloCode need to do a better job.<br />
Mycomics in the Problem Space<br />
Dr Geste, member <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Society</strong> for<br />
the Protection <strong>of</strong> Scholarly Communi-<br />
cation, <strong>of</strong>Sers the following thoughtful<br />
rumination as a guide to fellow<br />
researchers now preparing their annual<br />
lecture presentations.<br />
During a recent conference on<br />
genomics and bioinformatics, the<br />
obvious became apparent: <strong>The</strong> suffix<br />
"-ome" has become the ne plus ultra <strong>of</strong><br />
vogue in scientific neologism. Of<br />
course, the familiar and the<br />
more recent "proteome" were dis-<br />
cussed at length. <strong>The</strong> boldest speakers<br />
also waxed rapturously about the<br />
"transcriptome" and the<br />
"metabolome". Can the "vacuolome",<br />
For now I will struggle on, trying to<br />
apply the ICBN. It also may not work<br />
in the path <strong>of</strong> the flood <strong>of</strong> newly<br />
generated molecular data analyses. I am<br />
horrified by some <strong>of</strong> the 'necessary'<br />
changes mandated by the new data. I<br />
wish there were a better way. Yet, I<br />
keep returning the to the genius in the<br />
simplicity <strong>of</strong> naming things by<br />
Linnaeus. Short names used as handles.<br />
I reflect upon what de Queiroz &<br />
Gauthier (1992) might have been<br />
thinking when they wrote, "If used only<br />
to represent relative position in a<br />
hierarchy, the Linnaean categories<br />
contain no information about common<br />
ancestry that is not present in a branch-<br />
ing diagram or an indented list <strong>of</strong><br />
names" (p. 454). And I wonder what<br />
was wrong to begin with? Have you<br />
ever gone back to see what Linnaeus<br />
replaced with the names and binomi-<br />
als? Must we now all publish diagrams<br />
or lists to communicate? Or can we<br />
think <strong>of</strong> a way to use the existing<br />
names? That is my goal for now.<br />
As for cladograms with informal<br />
names (e.g., euagarics), such as those<br />
being published by researchers like<br />
"cytoskeletome", and "excretome" be<br />
far behind?<br />
One speaker addressed this burgeon-<br />
ing field, and his contributions to it,<br />
with evident satisfaction1. Scientific<br />
<strong>America</strong>n has also noted this exploding<br />
field <strong>of</strong> opportunity2. It is timely indeed<br />
for the fungal biologists formerly<br />
known as mycologists to heed the<br />
clarion call - indeed, the mantra - <strong>of</strong><br />
'2ome".<br />
This resonant suffix means "an<br />
abstract entity, group, or massw3, which<br />
boils down nicely to "stuff', "body <strong>of</strong><br />
stuff', or "the whole enchilada".<br />
Scientific usage is well established (i.e.,<br />
David Hibbett, I find them fascinating,<br />
instructive, and useful. Somewhere<br />
there will be a happy medium between<br />
Linnaean nomenclature and phyloge-<br />
netic-speak.<br />
References<br />
Cantino, PD. 2000. Phylogenetic<br />
nomenc1ature:addressing some concerns.<br />
Taxon 49:85-93.<br />
Cantino, PD, Bryant, HN, Queiroz, Kde,<br />
Donoghue, MJ, Eriksson, T, Hillis, DM,<br />
Lee, MSY. 1999. Species names in<br />
phylogenetic nomenclature. Syst. Biol.<br />
48:790-807.<br />
Hibbett, DS, Donoghue, MJ. 1998.<br />
Integrating phylogenetic analysis and<br />
classification in fungi. Mycologia<br />
90:347-356.<br />
Jackman, TR, Larson, A, Queiroz, Kde,<br />
Losos, JB. 1999. Phylogenetic relation-<br />
ships and tempo <strong>of</strong> early diversification<br />
in Anolis lizards. Syst. Biol. 48:254-285.<br />
Pleijel, F. 1999. Phylogenetic taxonomy, a<br />
farewell to species, and a revision <strong>of</strong><br />
Hetempodarke (Hesionidae, Polychueta,<br />
Annelida). Syst. Biol. 48:755-789.<br />
Queiroz, Kde, Gauthier, J. 1992. Phyloge-<br />
netic taxonomy. Annu. Rev. Ecol. Syst.<br />
23~449-480.<br />
by Michael 0 Geste<br />
"biome") if only recently appreciated.<br />
Commercial usage is red-hot (e.g.,<br />
"Proteomics"). "-ome" alone could be<br />
the next "-gen" <strong>of</strong> biocommerce,<br />
especially when compounded with the<br />
further suffix "-ics" ("the exploitation<br />
<strong>of</strong>'). Roll out the IPOs! (Eh? .com<br />
again?)<br />
At the above-mentioned convocation,<br />
there were also recurring references to<br />
"the problem space". As an example,<br />
picture an n-dimensional space, where<br />
the dimensions represent abstract<br />
concepts such as employment, funding,<br />
tenure, intellectual property rights,<br />
venture capital, startups, stock options,<br />
acclaim, trophy spouses, and the like.
Students <strong>of</strong> the fungi face formidable<br />
obstacles in negotiating this space<br />
toward the peaks <strong>of</strong> the outcome<br />
probability surface. This is no doubt in<br />
part because our discipline is saddled<br />
with the rather logey suffix "-logyw (=<br />
"the study <strong>of</strong> ').<br />
We may, therefore, recast our<br />
endeavors as mycomics ("the exploita-<br />
tion <strong>of</strong> all the fungal stuff'). We<br />
thereby distinguish ourselves from<br />
those who flog the macrota (= "the big<br />
stuff'; cognates = iota, crapola), and<br />
from those associating with simpler<br />
germs and terms. Resist the temptation<br />
to hitch your wagon to the mycetome,<br />
however, as that tiny organ <strong>of</strong> ticks,<br />
mites, and diverse bugs is rather<br />
underpowered for the task.<br />
In summary, the optimum n-dimen-<br />
sional vector traversing the emergent<br />
fungal-career problem space lies along<br />
a path corresponding to mycomics. See<br />
you at the trademark <strong>of</strong>fice.<br />
'Weinstein, M. 22 October 1998. Fishing<br />
expeditions. Science Magazine (online):<br />
282 (5389): 628-629.<br />
2Stix, G. July 1999. Parsing cells. Scientific<br />
<strong>America</strong>n pp 36-37.<br />
'Webster's Third New International<br />
Dictionary. 198 1. Memam-Webster:<br />
Springfield, MA. p. 1573.<br />
<strong>The</strong> International Biodiversdty Observation Year, 2001-2002<br />
Drs Wall and Adams are charged with<br />
administrating IBOY (International<br />
Biodiversity Observation Year). Dr<br />
Adams, the IBOY Program OfJicer, can<br />
be reached at the Natural Resource<br />
Ecology Laboratory, Colorado State<br />
University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-<br />
1499, USA. Phone 970.491.1984 FAX<br />
970.491.3945<br />
(ibo~ @nrel.colostate.edu)<br />
A year to focus global attention on<br />
biodiversity and the sciences that<br />
explore it is being planned for 2001-<br />
2002 (Noms, 2000). IBOY is an<br />
initiative <strong>of</strong> DIVERSITAS, the interna-<br />
tional program on biodiversity science,<br />
and will be launched on December 29,<br />
2000, the United Nations International<br />
Day for Biological Diversity.<br />
Planning for IBOY began in 1997, in<br />
response to a growing awareness<br />
among the scientific community that<br />
accurate and timely information on the<br />
extent and significance <strong>of</strong> biodiversity<br />
loss was not being communicated to the<br />
public. Simultaneously, the need to<br />
integrate the different dimensions <strong>of</strong><br />
biodiversity research was recognized,<br />
so that linkages between biodiversity,<br />
ecosystems, and society could be<br />
examined.<br />
An International Steering Committee,<br />
chaired by Dr Diana Wall, is directing<br />
IBOY toward its two primary goals, to:<br />
Promote and integrate biodiversity<br />
science, thus advancing a holistic<br />
understanding <strong>of</strong> biodiversity<br />
Educate the public about<br />
biodiversity, explaining the implica-<br />
tions <strong>of</strong> biodiversity research and the<br />
opportunities for further discovery<br />
At the core <strong>of</strong> IBOY is a diverse<br />
portfolio <strong>of</strong> projects, each indepen-<br />
dently directed and funded. To date, 37<br />
international projects, across 41<br />
countries, are contributing to the IBOY.<br />
<strong>The</strong>y fall into three categories:<br />
Scientific voyages <strong>of</strong> discovery -<br />
to describe the world's species, their<br />
genetic properties, and interrelation-<br />
ships<br />
Informatics - to organize, interlink,<br />
and deliver biological information, for<br />
use by all sectors <strong>of</strong> society<br />
Education and outreach - to<br />
convey accurate and timely information<br />
Diana H Wall and Gina A Adams<br />
on biodiversity and its ecological and<br />
economical importance<br />
More information on these projects<br />
can be found at the IBOY webpage<br />
htt~://www.nrel.colostate.edu/IBOY.<br />
IBOY is accepting proposals for<br />
projects until mid 2000.<br />
IBOY will bring add-on value to the<br />
participating projects through synthesis<br />
activities, including meetings,<br />
webpages, publications, festivals and<br />
films, that will bring the projects<br />
together to:<br />
showcase the multiple approaches<br />
required to understand the natural<br />
world<br />
initiate new scientific coalitions to<br />
describe and manage the complex<br />
biodiversity relationships<br />
bridge the gap between scientists,<br />
informatics specialists, and the media<br />
for better communication <strong>of</strong><br />
biodiversity information<br />
Further information on IBOY and<br />
how to get involved can be found from<br />
the IBOY webpage or by contacting Dr<br />
Gina Adams, IBOY Program Officer,<br />
Natural Resource Ecology Laboratory,<br />
Colorado State University, Fort Collins,<br />
CO 80523-1499, USA. 970.491.1984<br />
FAX 970.49 1.3945<br />
(ibov@nrel.colostate.edu).
MSA BUSINESS<br />
From the President<br />
Dear friends and colleagues:<br />
Jim and I enjoyed hosting the annual MSA Midyear<br />
Executive Committee Meeting here in February. Winter<br />
routes were circuitous: Orson Miller arrived from Virginia<br />
via Nova Scotia, Maren Klich got an unexpected evening<br />
with her mom in Chicago, and Tim Baroni got as far as<br />
Rochester and no further. <strong>The</strong> meeting was very productive<br />
and much has happened since. <strong>The</strong> <strong>Society</strong> is in good<br />
financial shape this year - thanks to the leadership <strong>of</strong> Orson<br />
Miller, Jeff Stone, and George Carroll, but we will be<br />
facing higher costs for producing MYCOLOGIA with<br />
volume 92. <strong>The</strong> challenges that I foresee are in building<br />
membership - all fungal biologists belong with the MSA! -<br />
as well as our domestic institutional subscriber list. No other<br />
society <strong>of</strong>fers more personal mentorship than we provide for<br />
students and young pr<strong>of</strong>essionals. (On that note, please<br />
contribute to our Mentor Student Travel Funds. Some<br />
named funds are failing to thrive - contributing even a<br />
modest amount to these funds will help to make them self-<br />
sufficient.) We need to retain institutional subscribers, while<br />
finding the best possible way to make MYCOLOGIA<br />
available online to those who wish to receive it that way. As<br />
you will note elsewhere in this issue <strong>of</strong> INOCULUM, the<br />
MSA will be awarding up to two undergraduate mycology<br />
research awards for this year. I am very interested in any<br />
suggestions and contacts for corporate or foundation support<br />
for undergraduate research awards that you may be able to<br />
furnish.<br />
It is hard to imagine INOCULUM without Lorelei<br />
Norvell, but her term is coming to an end with volume 5 1.<br />
HELP WANTED. Would you like to edit INOCULUM?<br />
Contact me (Linda Kohn) if you are interested.<br />
David Farr has made terrific progress on a new MSA<br />
Bulletin Board, which may well be available by the time that<br />
you read this. Many thanks to Dick Korf, who has agreed to<br />
stay on as manager during the transitional period. If you are<br />
interested in taking over, please let me know. Dick would be<br />
happy to discuss the job with you; he has made it look easy.<br />
After much discussion, our new address for the commercial<br />
server will be (msafungi.or~); we hope that everyone will<br />
find this memorable and pleasing. Stay tuned for electronic<br />
developments.<br />
We now have a formal liaison relationship with the British<br />
<strong>Mycological</strong> <strong>Society</strong>. Tony Whalley is the BMS liaison and<br />
Jack Rogers is the MSA counterpart. We trust that liaisons<br />
who are also good friends and collaborators will surely<br />
facilitate cooperation. With Exec Committee approval, I<br />
have applied for a berth for a joint MSA-BMS meeting in<br />
2003 at the Asilomar Conference Center on the Monterey<br />
Peninsula. It will be at least a year before the California<br />
State Park Service makes the decision. <strong>The</strong> joint meeting<br />
would be an MSA Annual Meeting with contributed presen-<br />
tations, but would also have a strongly themed component <strong>of</strong><br />
symposia and discussion sessions, resulting in a publication.<br />
It won't surprise anyone to learn that '<strong>The</strong> Fungal Species"<br />
was a theme strongly supported when I met with the BMS<br />
Council in December.<br />
On the public policy front, the MSA now has three repre-<br />
sentatives on Working Groups advising the US Department<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Interior, Invasive Species Advisory Committee<br />
(ISAC): Mary Palm is on "Research Information Sharing,<br />
Monitoring and Documentation," Jeff Stone is on "Risk<br />
Analysis and Prevention:' and Jim Worrall is on "Policy<br />
and Regulations." Meetings have begun via teleconferenc-<br />
ing. I thank Mary, Jeff, and Jim for taking the time to<br />
contribute their mycologicial and regulatory experience. I<br />
am convinced that invasive species are one <strong>of</strong> the key issues<br />
in global trade and maintenance <strong>of</strong> ecosystem functions in<br />
the immediate future.<br />
On March 22, Brian Boom (President, Association <strong>of</strong><br />
Systematics Collections) and I co-moderated a Synthesis<br />
Session, "Biodiversity Exploration: Systematics and Classifi-<br />
cation," at the 5 1st Annual AIBS Meeting co-sponsored with<br />
the Smithsonian Institution ("Biology: Challenges for the<br />
New Millennium," 22-24 March). <strong>The</strong> AIBS meeting was<br />
capped at 500 participants and included many high school<br />
teachers (and not surprisingly, a town meeting on teaching<br />
evolution, which was excellent). Our session followed a<br />
keynote presentation by Ernst Mayr and Plenary talks by<br />
Stephen Jay Gould and Sir Ghillean Prance. Brian and I<br />
worked to steer the discussion toward the science and the<br />
role <strong>of</strong> collections and databases in biodiversity exploration.<br />
Amy Rossman, as Director <strong>of</strong> the National Fungus Collec-<br />
tion, and Ray Cypess, as President and CEO <strong>of</strong> the ATCC,<br />
contributed significantly to the discussion, as did Roberta<br />
Faul-Zeitler, Exectutive Director <strong>of</strong> the ASC, John Kress <strong>of</strong><br />
the Smithsonian, and Ghillean Prance. Brian and I wrote up<br />
a strong summary and presented two questions to a panel<br />
that included plenary speakers E.O. Wilson, Dan Janzen,<br />
Gene Likens, Gordon Orians, Ghillean Prance, and Marvalee<br />
Wake (Gould and Lynn Margulis had departed). Meeting<br />
proceedings (including Wilson's characteristically incisive<br />
views on the need for information in collections for<br />
biocomplexity research) were videotaped, with release <strong>of</strong> the<br />
tape and a publication due out next year through the<br />
Smithsonian. This will include interviews <strong>of</strong> all plenary<br />
speakers; Paula DePriest (1988 MSA Grad Fellow) could be<br />
seen on location hard at work as an interviewer.<br />
On April 4 and 5 I was joined by MSA members, Anathea
MSA BUSINESS continaed<br />
Brooks and David Geiser in Washington for the Science, and if funds are appropriated, include the National Science<br />
Engineering and Technology Working Group (SETWG) Foundation, the Department <strong>of</strong> the Interior, the Smithsonian<br />
annual Congressional Visits Day. We were taken under the Institution, and the Environmental Protection Agency. <strong>The</strong><br />
wing <strong>of</strong> Ellen Paul, the AIBS Public Responsibility Repre- Senate passed its version <strong>of</strong> this bill last year. Need help<br />
sentative, who had made appointments for us with our finding your Congressional representatives? Use the AIBS<br />
Congressional representatives. After briefings from the US Legislation Information Center, located at
MSA BUSINESS continued<br />
Midyear Minutes, continued<br />
sion regarding emeritus membership;<br />
therefore she suggested that the<br />
renewal form under emeritus member-<br />
ship state: "Elected position for retired<br />
members. Contact secretary for<br />
information." Emeritus and other<br />
membership requests as well as<br />
renewals are now being handled<br />
promptly, due in large part to the<br />
improvements being made by Allen<br />
Management and Marketing. She<br />
reported that she is now sending out<br />
copies <strong>of</strong> the new poster "What can you<br />
do with training in Mycology" rather<br />
than the booklet "Careers in Mycol-<br />
ogy" to career centers requesting<br />
information on mycology as a career.<br />
She pointed out that the Manual <strong>of</strong><br />
Operations needs to be updated to<br />
reflect the new bylaws and changes in<br />
publication ownership. President Linda<br />
Kohn will contact committee chairs and<br />
<strong>of</strong>ficers to urge them to revise their<br />
portions <strong>of</strong> the Manual.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Vice-president's report was<br />
faxed to the executive council by Tim<br />
Baroni. Nominations for vice-presi-<br />
dent, secretary, and councilors have<br />
been received from both the Member-<br />
ship and the Nominations Committees.<br />
Dr Baroni is in the process <strong>of</strong> contact-<br />
ing nominees to see if they will agree to<br />
stand for <strong>of</strong>fice.<br />
Finances<br />
Treasurer Jeff Stone reported that,<br />
based on his preliminary projections,<br />
the income <strong>of</strong> the society will exceed<br />
expenses this year by about $13,000.<br />
This estimate does not include possible<br />
page overruns for Mycologia. Member-<br />
ship renewals are down slightly from<br />
last year. Dr Stone will request a list <strong>of</strong><br />
those with lapsed memberships from<br />
Linda Hardwick at Allen Management<br />
and Marketing, in order to determine<br />
why these members are not renewing.<br />
President Kohn will write a letter to<br />
those 1998-99 members who did not<br />
renew, to be enclosed with a gratis<br />
issue <strong>of</strong> Mycologia 92(1) previously<br />
approved by Council. Since we are now<br />
publishing Mycologia on our own, and<br />
our 2000 Annual Meeting requires<br />
liability insurance, Dr Stone is looking<br />
into comprehensive liability insurance<br />
for the <strong>Society</strong> and its <strong>of</strong>ficials.<br />
Orson Miller, President-elect and<br />
Chair <strong>of</strong> the Finance Committee, also<br />
reports that our financial situation is<br />
favorable. Our total portfolio, including<br />
bond ladders, mutual funds, and money<br />
market funds, is $485,151 as <strong>of</strong> January<br />
3 1,2000. Transfer <strong>of</strong> $100,000 from<br />
operating funds to our money market<br />
fund has increased our estimated<br />
annual income to about $26,000. Dr<br />
Miller brought up the possibility <strong>of</strong><br />
moving some <strong>of</strong> this money into bonds<br />
ladders or other conservative mutual<br />
funds, but he wants to move slowly<br />
since we are still within the first year <strong>of</strong><br />
publishing Mycologia on our own.<br />
Executive council encouraged Dr<br />
Miller and the Finance Committee to<br />
make the adjustments in the portfolio as<br />
they saw fit, in keeping with our<br />
conservative investment strategy.<br />
Endowment Chair Judi Ellzey<br />
reported that the Endowment Comrnit-<br />
tee has raised $1 1,200 since August 1,<br />
1999, including $7200 in donations and<br />
$4000 from the auction, T-shirts,<br />
mushroom pins, and cookbooks.<br />
Several <strong>of</strong> the mentor travel funds are<br />
stalled. It was hoped that contributions<br />
to each <strong>of</strong> these funds would generate<br />
enough income to support the travel <strong>of</strong><br />
one student to the meetings.<br />
(Secretary's NOTE: For those <strong>of</strong> you<br />
wanting to make a worthy contribution<br />
to the <strong>Society</strong>, the Fuller, Thiers,<br />
Trappe, and Wells funds are all still<br />
below $3000 each!) Endowment<br />
Committee member Esther<br />
McLaughlin is planning a telephone<br />
campaign to encourage donations to the<br />
Mentor Travel Funds.<br />
Two other endowment-related issues<br />
were discussed. As a result <strong>of</strong> corre-<br />
spondence from Ken Wells, Martin-<br />
Baker Fund Chair, and MSA mem-<br />
bers who have contributed to this fund,<br />
the Executive Council will recommend<br />
to full Council that the amount <strong>of</strong> the<br />
award be raised to $2000. This is in<br />
keeping with a policy <strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong>fering<br />
8<br />
awards in at least the amount <strong>of</strong> interest<br />
income generated by the fund. <strong>The</strong><br />
second decision was that MSA will not<br />
administer the Temperate Forest Fungal<br />
Research Award.<br />
MSA has received an increasing<br />
number <strong>of</strong> requests for funding from<br />
organizers <strong>of</strong> meetings sponsored by<br />
other organizations. Jeff Stone and<br />
Maren Klich drafted a policy state-<br />
ment for funding such meetings.<br />
Executive Council approved the<br />
following as the MSA policy on<br />
providing funding for meetings<br />
sponsored by other organizations:<br />
MSA Council may approve expendi-<br />
tures <strong>of</strong> up to $4000 in a fiscal year<br />
(Aug.-July) for the financial support <strong>of</strong><br />
scientific meetings sponsored by other<br />
societies and organizations. No more<br />
than $2000 shall be allocated to any<br />
single meeting. Requests for MSA<br />
support must be received by the<br />
President at least three months prior to<br />
the event. <strong>The</strong> President will then refer<br />
the proposal to the appropriate subject<br />
area committee(s) or to the Executive<br />
Council for evaluation. <strong>The</strong> committee<br />
may contact the sponsors for additional<br />
information or to assist them in<br />
preparing an effective proposal as<br />
necessary. A request for funding should<br />
include a description <strong>of</strong> the content or<br />
theme <strong>of</strong> the meeting and its expected<br />
products (publications, new research<br />
initiatives, etc), a tentative program, a<br />
list <strong>of</strong> MSA participants, and sources <strong>of</strong><br />
major funding and sponsorship. If MSA<br />
funds are sought for a specific aspect <strong>of</strong><br />
the program, e.g., a symposium in a<br />
more general meeting, this should be<br />
described. Following a recommenda-<br />
tion from the committee, Council will<br />
vote on the allocation <strong>of</strong> funds.<br />
Guidelines for awarding funds are:<br />
1. Special meeting, not a regular or<br />
annual meeting, with unique focus<br />
or significance. <strong>The</strong> meeting must<br />
also be open to contributed papers<br />
or posters, not a closed "by<br />
invitation only" meeting.<br />
2. Participation <strong>of</strong> MSA members.<br />
MSA members should be invited
participants either as speakers,<br />
symposium organizers, or other<br />
substantive activity. Opportunities<br />
for participation, such as contrib-<br />
uted papers or posters from MSA<br />
members, must also be available.<br />
If there is no anticipated participa-<br />
tion by MSA members, then<br />
particular justification for MSA<br />
involvement in funding must be<br />
provided.<br />
3. Impact <strong>of</strong> MSA funding. Will MSA<br />
funding make a difference?<br />
4. Advancement <strong>of</strong> mycology. Will<br />
the event achieve a synthesis,<br />
break new ground, or stimulate<br />
new initiatives in mycology?<br />
5. Published proceedings (may be a<br />
broad interpretation <strong>of</strong> publica-<br />
tion).<br />
6. Potential to influence research.<br />
7. Participation <strong>of</strong> mycologists<br />
worldwide.<br />
8. Overall scientific contentlsignifi-<br />
cance.<br />
Funds so allocated shall be drawn<br />
from the unrestricted endowment and/<br />
or operating funds and shall be limited<br />
to the availability <strong>of</strong> such funds in the<br />
year requested. <strong>The</strong> availability <strong>of</strong><br />
funds is subject to other financial<br />
obligations <strong>of</strong> the MSA. <strong>The</strong> MSA asks<br />
to be acknowledged for its contribution<br />
in any published proceedings to result<br />
from MSA-supported meetings. This<br />
request should be included in a letter<br />
informing the meeting sponsors <strong>of</strong> any<br />
MSA contributions. Executive Council<br />
approved a motion that a sum <strong>of</strong> $500<br />
be allocated to each MSA President for<br />
discretionary spending, with the<br />
unspent balance to be returned to the<br />
Treasurer at the end <strong>of</strong> the term.<br />
Publications<br />
Mycologia Editor-in-Chief David<br />
Griffin reports that he has received 11 1<br />
manuscripts since June 30, 1999.<br />
Volume 91 has been completed, with<br />
123 papers plus indices, etc. Volume<br />
92, Nos 1-3 are in press and No 4 is<br />
partly filled. He requested that Chris<br />
Schardl be reappointed as an Associate<br />
Editor, and the Executive Committee<br />
approved this request. He reports that,<br />
after a thorough search, a pr<strong>of</strong>essional<br />
indexer - Donald Glassman <strong>of</strong><br />
Glassman Indexing Services -will<br />
provide the indices for Vol. 92. <strong>The</strong><br />
cost will be $3000, the same as the<br />
previous arrangement. President Kohn<br />
has signed this contract for the <strong>Society</strong>.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Color Cover Committee, chaired<br />
by Rick Howard, has hired a graphics<br />
designer to produce trial designs for the<br />
Committee to consider. <strong>The</strong> first color<br />
cover is expected to appear on the<br />
93(1) issue. Work is continuing on<br />
establishment <strong>of</strong> a policy for providing<br />
a free color plate to authors.<br />
Mycologia Managing Editor Orson<br />
Miller reported that 120 1 members<br />
have renewed, as well as 861 institutional<br />
members. To avoid paying the $5<br />
per person charge for those no longer<br />
active (non-renewing), names will be<br />
dropped from the roles after one year,<br />
during which the memberlformer<br />
member will receive three renewal<br />
notices. Miller noted that there has<br />
been some confusion over where the<br />
copyright release and page charge<br />
forms should be sent. <strong>The</strong> copvri~ht<br />
release should be sent to the Managing<br />
Editor, and the paPe charges go to Allen<br />
Press. Use <strong>of</strong> AllenAir to airmail copies<br />
<strong>of</strong> Mycologia to countries other than<br />
the USA, Canada, and Mexico costs<br />
about $2 more per issue, but has met<br />
with overall approval and will be<br />
continued. He also reported that our<br />
new liaison at Allen Press is Beverly<br />
Prescott, replacing Sharon Kindall. <strong>The</strong><br />
new ana aging ~ditor will be Dr<br />
James Ginns (1970 Sutherland Rd.,<br />
Penticton, BC V2A 8T8, CAN<br />
(pinnsi @telus.net). <strong>The</strong> Executive<br />
Council thanked Orson for serving so<br />
well during these transition years, and<br />
thanked Jim for agreeing to take on this<br />
task. Jim will address several ongoing<br />
issues, including - electronic publishing, - -<br />
copyright release forms, and meeting<br />
the budget for the journal.<br />
Executive Council discussed some<br />
MSA BUSINESS umtimred<br />
possibilities for the electronic publishing<br />
<strong>of</strong> Mycologia. Our discussion <strong>of</strong><br />
BioOne centered on the fact that since<br />
we are publishing with Allen Press we<br />
would not have the up-front cost <strong>of</strong><br />
$20,000 startup if we were to go<br />
electronic independently. BioOne is an<br />
initiative to bundle electronic journals.<br />
<strong>The</strong> objective is to build BioOne with<br />
the capacity to "online" via the World<br />
Wide Web a cross-linked database<br />
containing the full text and graphics <strong>of</strong><br />
the peer-reviewed journals published<br />
by AIBS members. We discussed the<br />
specter <strong>of</strong> this on the horizon with the<br />
need to obtain revenue, not lose<br />
institutional subscribers or members,<br />
and have an agreement that we could<br />
terminate if either the desire or necessity<br />
presented itself.<br />
Web Page Committee members<br />
Dave and Ellen Farr report that they<br />
have developed a new version <strong>of</strong> the<br />
MSA Bulletin Board. <strong>The</strong> new version<br />
was enthusiastically endorsed by<br />
members <strong>of</strong> the Executive Committee,<br />
who approved spending $50-60lmonth<br />
for a commercial Internet Service<br />
Provider.<br />
Znoculum Editor Lorelei Norvell<br />
reported that, despite computer and<br />
other problems, the newsletter has<br />
come out on time. She thanks MSA<br />
member Laurel Carroll for volunteering<br />
to pro<strong>of</strong>read two sections <strong>of</strong><br />
Inoculum 51(1). She also reminded<br />
Council that her term is over at the<br />
conclusion <strong>of</strong> Vol5 1 (6), so we need to<br />
seek a new Inoculum Editor.<br />
Future MSA Meetings<br />
2000 - July 29-August 3, Burlington,<br />
Vermont - Program Chair, Faye<br />
Murrin<br />
2001 -August 25-29, Salt Lake City,<br />
Utah (with the <strong>America</strong>n Phytopathological<br />
<strong>Society</strong> and the <strong>Society</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />
Nernatologists) - Program Chair, Jim<br />
Anderson<br />
2002 - June 22-26, Corvallis, Oregon<br />
- Program Chair, Keith Egger<br />
Plans for 2003 and bevond: Liida
MSA BUSINESS continued<br />
Kohn is looking into a joint meeting<br />
with the British <strong>Mycological</strong> <strong>Society</strong> at<br />
Asilomar in California. Program Chair<br />
will be Susan Kaminskyi. Maren<br />
Klich is looking into a possible joint<br />
meeting with the <strong>Mycological</strong> <strong>Society</strong><br />
<strong>of</strong> Japan in Hawaii in 2005 or 2006.<br />
Committee Reports<br />
A number <strong>of</strong> committee chairs<br />
submitted mid-year reports. Executive<br />
Council considered these and thanks<br />
the committees for their high levels <strong>of</strong><br />
activity.<br />
Committees<br />
<strong>The</strong> Executive Committee heartily<br />
thanks Jim Anderson for supplying lo-<br />
gistical support for the mid-year execu-<br />
tive meetinp<br />
-- - - - - - - -- - - 0.<br />
<strong>The</strong> m e e t i n g m<br />
was adjourned at<br />
505 PM.<br />
Respectfully - -.<br />
submitted, 5<br />
Maren Klich<br />
Secretary Y<br />
New Ad HOC ECEJCCNF<br />
mon Names" for mushrooms. <strong>The</strong><br />
Ex~lorato~ Committee will re~ort to<br />
In response to a number <strong>of</strong> queries on<br />
the part <strong>of</strong> the Liaison Committee, on<br />
March 31 MSA president Linda Kohn<br />
initiated the "Exploratory Committee<br />
on the Establishment <strong>of</strong> a Joint<br />
Commission on Common Names <strong>of</strong><br />
Fungi." This committee is charged<br />
with drafting a set <strong>of</strong> recommendations<br />
on the formation <strong>of</strong> a joint MSA-<br />
NAMA (North <strong>America</strong>n <strong>Mycological</strong><br />
<strong>Society</strong>) commission in charge <strong>of</strong><br />
creating a list <strong>of</strong> recommended "Com-<br />
MSA Council at its annual meeting in<br />
Vermont on July 29.<br />
MSA has already contacted NAMA<br />
president Allein Stanley so as to<br />
facilitate cooperation and coordination<br />
between the two societies and to initiate<br />
discussion on who should be contacted<br />
at this preliminary stage. At this time,<br />
the Exploratory Committee will not<br />
create a list <strong>of</strong> names itself; it is simply<br />
charged with exploring how the two<br />
societies working together can set up<br />
such a list. Members <strong>of</strong> the committee,<br />
2000 MSA FORAY<br />
NOTE: <strong>The</strong> annual MSA Foray will<br />
be on SUNDAY, July 30!<br />
This year's annual foray will take<br />
place in the Indian Brook Conservation<br />
Area (IBCA) near the University <strong>of</strong><br />
Vermont on Sunday, July 30. IBCA<br />
contains nearly 1000 acres and includes<br />
a large lake and a diversity <strong>of</strong> wood-<br />
land habitats. According to Robert<br />
Resnik, our local representative, the<br />
area consists <strong>of</strong> a large mixed hard-<br />
wood forest with some intermittent<br />
pine forests. Habitats range from<br />
ridgetop communities to rich bottom-<br />
lands. In addition to the large lake,<br />
there are creeks and creek banks. With<br />
a little help from the "rain gods," it<br />
sounds like this year's trip should<br />
provide some good collecting.<br />
You need to register for the foray<br />
when you register for the annual<br />
meeting. <strong>The</strong> cost <strong>of</strong> the foray is $30<br />
per participant and includes transporta-<br />
tion, boxed lunch, additional beverages<br />
in both the morning and afternoon<br />
collection sessions, and a post-foray lab<br />
at the University <strong>of</strong> Vermont. <strong>The</strong> buses<br />
MSA Council Email Express<br />
Summary <strong>of</strong> March-April Email<br />
Council Actions<br />
- Council approved Jan Stenlid as a<br />
new Associate Editor for Mycologia.<br />
- Council approved creation <strong>of</strong> two<br />
undergraduate research awards <strong>of</strong> up to<br />
$500 each for the year 2000.<br />
- Council approved use <strong>of</strong> the<br />
remaining $500 allocated for non-MSA<br />
meetings this fiscal year for support <strong>of</strong><br />
the Asian <strong>Mycological</strong> Congress<br />
Maren Klich, Secretary<br />
all <strong>of</strong> whom belong to both MSA and<br />
NAMA, are either current or past MSA<br />
Liaison Committee members: Elio<br />
Schaechter (current chair <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Liaison Committee), Judy Roger<br />
(Editor <strong>of</strong> Mycophile, NAMA newslet-<br />
ter, and current Liaison Committee<br />
member), Tom Volk (MSA webmaster<br />
and current Liaison Committee<br />
member), Lorelei Norvell (Editor <strong>of</strong><br />
Inoculum, past Liaison Committee<br />
member and chair), and Scott Redhead<br />
(Chair, and past Liaison Committee<br />
member and chair).<br />
MSA 2000<br />
will leave from the parking lot near the<br />
dorms where members are staying<br />
(exact site to be determined). We will<br />
leave at 9:00 AM and return around<br />
5:00 PM. <strong>The</strong> number <strong>of</strong> participants is<br />
limited to 135. If you have any<br />
questions, please contact
MSA BUSINESS continued<br />
<strong>The</strong> MSA Committee on Teaching NEEDS YOUR HELP!<br />
As <strong>of</strong> APRIL 15, the Committee had received only TWO (2) abstracts. Please<br />
consider presenting a poster about the teaching <strong>of</strong> fungi at the informal session.<br />
Have you developed or are you teaching labs using fungi to illustrate various biological concepts?<br />
Have you discovered new ways to demonstrate various fungal structures or processes?<br />
Have you found more efficient ways <strong>of</strong> cultivating fungi?<br />
If you answered yes to any <strong>of</strong> these questions or if you<br />
know <strong>of</strong> other interesting uses <strong>of</strong> fungi in the laboratory, the<br />
MSA Committee on Teaching needs your help.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Committee is hosting an informal poster session on<br />
FUNGI IN THE LABORATORY at this year's meeting at<br />
the University <strong>of</strong> Vermont. In order for this session to be<br />
successful, we need your participation.<br />
If you are using fungi in interesting ways in the laboratory<br />
or know <strong>of</strong> such uses, please consider presenting a poster.<br />
Remember, although you may think that what you do in the<br />
teaching laboratory is common knowledge, your colleagues<br />
may be totally unaware <strong>of</strong> these techniques.<br />
To help organize the session, please submit a short<br />
abstract to Don Ruch, Teaching Committee Chair (Dept.<br />
Biology, Ball State University, Muncie, IN 47383, Email<br />
druch@gw.bsu.edu). Abstracts should include the title, your<br />
name, and a one-page or less description <strong>of</strong> the presentation.<br />
All abstracts will be published in a booklet to be distrib-<br />
uted at the meeting. Since this is an informal poster session,<br />
these presentations will not count against any research<br />
presentations.<br />
ABSTRACTS ARE DUE NO LATER THAN<br />
JUNE 30,2000.<br />
Donald G Ruch, Chair<br />
Charles Mims is interested in developing a list <strong>of</strong> individuals who teach what might be considered as popularized undergraduate<br />
level mycology courses without labs. He asks that you please contact him if you teach such a course. He is particularly<br />
interested in knowing what types <strong>of</strong> topics you emphasize in your course, whether or not you use a book, enrollment<br />
figures, and your general thoughts about the overall value or success <strong>of</strong> your course. This relates to the teaching symposium<br />
(see above) planned for the MSA 2000 Annual Meeting. Email cwrnims@arches.u~a.edu.<br />
Change <strong>of</strong> Address<br />
Send all corrections <strong>of</strong> directory information, including e-mail addresses, directly to Allen Press<br />
<strong>Mycological</strong> <strong>Society</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>America</strong> 800.627.0629 (US and Canada)<br />
Attn: Linda Hardwick, Association Manager or 785.843.1221<br />
PO Box 1897 [810 E IOthSt] Fax 785.843.1274<br />
Lawrence, KS 66044-8897 Email lhardwick@allenpress.com<br />
Note: Members may also submit directory corrections via the form included in the MSA directory<br />
via the MSA Home Page: http://www.erin.utoronto.ca~-wmsa/.
MSA BUSINESS C OHCZU~~~<br />
- - MSA AUCTION 2000 - -<br />
CALLING ALL MYCOLOGISTS TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE MSA AUCTIONY<br />
<strong>The</strong> MSA Auction is a major source<br />
<strong>of</strong> funding for our ~nd~wmentfunds<br />
that support student scholarships, travel<br />
mentor funds, and research awards.<br />
china, photographs, T-shirts, posters,<br />
fungal identification <strong>of</strong> a new species,<br />
cookbooks, linens, back issues <strong>of</strong><br />
Mycologia, mugs, parodies with fungal<br />
Please notify Judi Ellzey --<br />
('jellzey@utep.edul, FAX 915.747.5808,<br />
Biological Sciences, 500 University<br />
Ave, University <strong>of</strong> Texas at El Paso, El<br />
Items that have sold well in the past<br />
include lithographs, fungal specimens,<br />
mushroom memorabilia, books,<br />
reprints, clothing, candles, paintings,<br />
themes, slide sets, cultures for lab<br />
demonstrations, dung samples, engraved<br />
plates, and dissertation drawings.<br />
Paso, TX 79968-05 19 -- about your<br />
contributions, so that she can prepare a<br />
catalog prior to the MSA meeting.<br />
Do you supervise undergraduates<br />
doing independent mycological<br />
research?<br />
Encourage your best undergraduate<br />
students to apply for our new award for<br />
undergraduate research projects<br />
supervised by MSA members. Up to<br />
two awards <strong>of</strong> $500US each will be<br />
made in late October 2000.<br />
Applications - due September 29,<br />
2000 - should include (i) a description<br />
<strong>of</strong> the proposed independent research<br />
project <strong>of</strong> not more than two double-<br />
spaced pages, (ii) undergraduate<br />
transcripts, and (iii) two letters <strong>of</strong><br />
From the Editor ...<br />
About This Issue<br />
Thanks to all <strong>of</strong> you who contributed to<br />
our workhorse issue. It appears that most<br />
MSA members successfully survived the<br />
online submission process. Particular<br />
thanks go to Jim Anderson and Faye<br />
Murrin for the time-consuming task <strong>of</strong><br />
assembling and organizing the abstracts<br />
(pages 13-70).<br />
Pro<strong>of</strong>reader Laurel Carroll is again<br />
thanked for continuing to add enlighten-<br />
ment and consistency to the newsletter. It<br />
appears that the Editor's formerly beloved<br />
Comma Rule ("when in doubt, leave it out")<br />
is confusing, so we are now requesting<br />
NEW?! MSA Undergraduate <strong>Mycological</strong> Research Award<br />
recommendation, one <strong>of</strong> which will be<br />
from the MSA member supervising the<br />
research.<br />
Send FOUR COPIES <strong>of</strong> the complete<br />
application package (proposal,<br />
transcript, recommendation letters) to<br />
Dr Lauraine Hawkins, 2000-2001<br />
Student Awards Committee Chair,<br />
Mont Alto Campus, Pennsylvania State<br />
University, Mont Alto, PA USA 17237-<br />
9703,717.749.6237 (Ikhl@.psu.edu)<br />
[also see http://www.erin.utoronto.cal<br />
-w3msal]. NOTE that only students<br />
supervised by MSA members are<br />
eligible.<br />
commas before all the final "ands" in a<br />
series. <strong>The</strong> jury is still out on whether<br />
"webpage" and "website" are each one<br />
word or two. Opinions are welcome.<br />
Our current issue demonstrates the great<br />
strides being made in digital technology.<br />
All "<strong>Mycological</strong> News" photos were<br />
received as electronical "jpeg" files, and the<br />
clarity <strong>of</strong> the images is gratifying. <strong>The</strong><br />
Editor admits that her new lab computer (a<br />
fully loaded Macintosh G4) and upgraded<br />
Adobe Photoshop LE may also have made a<br />
difference.<br />
When a Deadline is REALLY a Deadline<br />
Be forewarned: the Editor is planning to<br />
leave the country for three weeks shortly<br />
after June 15. This means that those <strong>of</strong> you<br />
wishing to submit articles, drawings,<br />
12<br />
<strong>The</strong> award, provided with the<br />
intention <strong>of</strong> supporting the proposed<br />
research, will be paid to the supervisor<br />
for disbursement as student and<br />
supervisor see fit. Student awardees<br />
will be encouraged to present their<br />
research results at the annual MSA<br />
meeting and to apply for mentor travel<br />
grant support. This award is a "special<br />
(perhaps a one-time-only) event"<br />
<strong>of</strong>fered by the MSA under this year's<br />
budget.<br />
Take advantage <strong>of</strong> the <strong>of</strong>fer and<br />
apply! Show us that this is program is<br />
valuable to you, the MSA membership.<br />
Linda M Kohn<br />
photographs, and news items MUST do so<br />
BEFORE June 15. Final copy WILL be sent<br />
to Allen Press on June 19. <strong>The</strong> good news<br />
is that you will very likely have Inoculum<br />
5 l(4) in your hands before the Vermont<br />
meeting.<br />
Embarrassing Corrections, Omissions<br />
and Additions Department<br />
Those <strong>of</strong> you who have been trying<br />
(indubitably fruitlessly) to telephone or fax<br />
Fungi Perfecti using the numbers from the<br />
Sustaining Members list printed in recent<br />
issues <strong>of</strong> Mycologia should be aware that<br />
the area code has been changed. <strong>The</strong><br />
correct numbers are 306.426.9292 (Phone)<br />
and 306.426.9377 (FAX). <strong>The</strong> <strong>Society</strong><br />
apologizes for any confusion.<br />
-
AIME, M. CATHERINE', *BARONI, TIMOTHY J.2,<br />
MILLER, ORSON K.I IDepartment <strong>of</strong> Biology, Virginia<br />
Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, 2Departrnent <strong>of</strong> Biology,<br />
SUNY-College at Cortland, Cortland, NY 13045 USA. A<br />
new stipitate Crepidotus from Puerto Rico.<br />
Crepidotus (Agaricales, Crepidotaceae) is a genus <strong>of</strong> mainly<br />
pleurotoid agarics, with well over 100 species accepted<br />
(Singer, 1986). Very few species <strong>of</strong> Crepidotus are obviously<br />
stipitate at maturity, with Crepidotus nyssicola (Murrill)<br />
Singer and Crepidotus stipitatus Kauffman being reported by<br />
Hesler and Smith (1965). Of these two taxa C. nyssicola,<br />
with white to pale cream colors, is infrequently collected in<br />
the eastern United States and the gulf coastal region, while<br />
C. stipitatus, also white, is known only from Michigan.<br />
Recently we have discovered yet another stipitate species <strong>of</strong><br />
Crepidotus in Puerto Rico in a dry subtropical forest at 100<br />
m elevation. This new dark reddish brown species was at<br />
first considered a Melanomphalia, http://www.cortland.edu/<br />
nsf/ga.html, however recent evidence from nlsu DNA<br />
sequences clearly places this taxon in the clade with other<br />
species <strong>of</strong> Crepidotus. We have provisionally named this new<br />
species Crepidotus tainorum, meaning <strong>of</strong> the Tainos peoples<br />
who originally inhabited most <strong>of</strong> the Caribbean basin. A<br />
discussion <strong>of</strong> Crepidotus and Melanomphalia will be<br />
presented because <strong>of</strong> the similarities <strong>of</strong> these two taxa. C.<br />
tainorum will be illustrated in detail and the nlsu rDNA<br />
phylogeny presented. Poster<br />
*AIME, M. CATHERINE AND MILLER, ORSON K.<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Biology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA<br />
24061 USA. An examination <strong>of</strong> phenotypic variance in<br />
Crepidotus.<br />
Taxonomic units in Crepidotus (Agaricales: Crepidotaceae)<br />
are currently defined by morphology <strong>of</strong> the fruiting body,<br />
<strong>of</strong>ten on the basis <strong>of</strong> single character differences. Prior<br />
phylogenetic efforts based on nuclear rDNA sequence data<br />
showed that the morphological characters previously applied<br />
for infrageneric classification were not true synapomorphies,<br />
but had multiple origins within the Crepidotus lineage. More<br />
recent efforts have focused on understanding patterns <strong>of</strong><br />
morphological variance in the terminal node taxa. Somatic<br />
intercompatibility and culture studies suggest that some<br />
distinctive phenotypic characters display a Mendelian pattern<br />
<strong>of</strong> inheritance; others may be influenced by environment. We<br />
have used different molecular approaches in conjunction<br />
with mating studies to provide a phylogenetic framework for<br />
re-examining phenotypic expression and inheritance in this<br />
group. <strong>The</strong> consequences for Crepidotus taxonomy will be<br />
discussed. Contributed Presentation<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
*ANDERSON, JENNIFER AND SHEARER, C.A. Depart-<br />
ment <strong>of</strong> Plant Biology, University <strong>of</strong> Illinois at Urbana-<br />
Champaign, 505 South Goodwin Avenue, Urbana, IL 61801<br />
USA. Phylogeny <strong>of</strong> Halosarpheia.<br />
Species in the aquatic ascomycete genus Halosarpheia are<br />
unified by the presence <strong>of</strong> unfurling appendages at or near<br />
the apices <strong>of</strong> ascospores. Taxonomic emphasis on this<br />
character has broadened the concept <strong>of</strong> the genus to include<br />
taxa that vary in other traditional taxonomic characters.<br />
Incongruence in ascus apex morphology, ascus persistence,<br />
and ascospore and hamathecium morphology suggests that<br />
the genus is not monophyletic. Our primary research goal is<br />
to clarify the phylogeny <strong>of</strong> Halosarpheia species within<br />
Halosphaeriales. Halosarpheia has recently been shown to<br />
be polyphyletic in two independent investigations, however,<br />
these studies were performed with no more than four species<br />
<strong>of</strong> Halosarpheia. Nuclear small subunit rDNA was se-<br />
quenced for ten representatives <strong>of</strong> the genus, including both<br />
marine and freshwater taxa. Halosarpheia sequence data<br />
were analyzed in conjunction with more than 35 related taxa.<br />
Results <strong>of</strong> these analyses, including the distribution <strong>of</strong><br />
Halosarpheia species throughout Halosphaeriales, are<br />
presented. Additionally, phylogenetic and morphological<br />
problems with H. viscosa, H. retorquens, and H. lotica and<br />
an anamorph/teleomorph connection for a Halosarpheia<br />
species are discussed. Poster<br />
*ANNIS, SEANNA L., STUBBS, CONNIE S., AND AHN,<br />
YOUNG-MEE. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences, University <strong>of</strong><br />
Maine, Orono, ME 04469 USA. Preliminary results <strong>of</strong><br />
stem disease surveys <strong>of</strong> lowbush blueberry fields in<br />
Maine.<br />
Lowbush blueberries are an important industry in Maine<br />
with 60,000 acres in production. A survey <strong>of</strong> stem diseases<br />
was conducted in the summer <strong>of</strong> 1999. Thirty-one blueberry<br />
fields, 16 non-bearing and 15 bearing, were sampled for stem<br />
diseases from 4 geographic areas <strong>of</strong> Maine. All stems<br />
showing disease symptoms were collected in 20 plots<br />
(0.25m2) along a "W' transect in each field. All samples<br />
were diagnosed for location (tip, middle, bottom or entire<br />
stem) <strong>of</strong> disease symptoms on the stem. <strong>The</strong> percentage <strong>of</strong><br />
damaged stems in crop-bearing fields was significantly<br />
higher than in non-bearing fields. A greater incidence <strong>of</strong><br />
disease was observed on the tips than other locations <strong>of</strong> the<br />
stem. From each field, stems from 6 plots were sorted by<br />
symptoms, surface sterilized, and plated. Fungi isolated from<br />
the stems were identified to genus. Over seventy fungal<br />
genera were identified. Preliminary results indicated some<br />
fungi commonly occur in many blueberry fields. Certain<br />
fungi tend to occur on specific locations <strong>of</strong> the stems. <strong>The</strong><br />
relationships between types <strong>of</strong> symptoms, the location <strong>of</strong><br />
symptoms on the stem and the fungi identified will be<br />
discussed. Contributed Presentation
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
*ARIAS, ROSA MARIA1, REYES, MANUELA1, A common and specific feature <strong>of</strong> sexual cycles in fungi is<br />
HEREDIA, GABRIELA1, BILLS, GERALD2. 'Institute de the production <strong>of</strong> a large number <strong>of</strong> different progeny from<br />
Ecologia, A.C., 91000, Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico, 2Merck one mating event. This feature is achieved by Euascomycetes<br />
Research Laboratories, P.O. Box 2000, Rahway, NJ 07065 after fertilization, by a series <strong>of</strong> mitotic divisions <strong>of</strong> parental<br />
USA. Heat- and chemical-resistant micr<strong>of</strong>ungi from nuclei within a syncytium. <strong>The</strong>n intermingled nuclei from<br />
conifer forest soils in the state <strong>of</strong> Veracruz, Mexico. male and female origine recognize each other and parental<br />
Soil fungi from forests <strong>of</strong> Pinus ham@, Pinus patula, and<br />
Abies religiosa in the volcanic cordillera <strong>of</strong> Veracruz state,<br />
Mexico were surveyed with heat- and chemical-pasteurization<br />
techniques. Soil pasteurizations enrich isolations <strong>of</strong><br />
fungi for species that produce ascospores, sclerotia, and<br />
pairs form many dika~Otic h~~hae. Car~Ogam~l<br />
and ascOspOre take place within these<br />
specialized hyphae. <strong>The</strong> internuclear recognition (IR) has<br />
been investigated in the heterothallic euascomycete<br />
Podospora anserina, in which IR occurs between nuclei with<br />
thick-walled conidia or hyphae. Morphological, culture, and<br />
molecular phylogenetic studies have led us to propose two<br />
new species in the T~~~~~~~~~~~~~ a new ~~l~~~~~~~~ with<br />
a sagenomella anamorph; and a new species <strong>of</strong>~erimbla<br />
opposite mat+ and mat- idiomorphs. IR is under the control<br />
three genes: FMR1 and SMR2 which are<br />
localized in the mat- idiomorph, and FPRl which is localized<br />
in the mat+ idiomorph. Mutations in these genes<br />
with a Humicola-like synanamorph. A Humicolopsis species, that the mat- genes Operate as activators<br />
similar to H. cephalosporioides, is ubiquitous in Veracruz<br />
conifer forest soils. ~ land parsimony i analysis ~ <strong>of</strong> ~<br />
ITS sequences <strong>of</strong> the fungus indicate that it is allied with the<br />
discomycetes. We compare the Mexican species <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>of</strong> the mat- IR system and repressors <strong>of</strong> the mat+ IR system<br />
in mat- ~ nuclei, while ~ FPRI would ~ have ~ reversed effects in<br />
mat+ Genetic that the IR regu1atory<br />
genes have a nucleus limited expression, allowing mat-<br />
Humicolopsis to H. cephalosporioides. A provisional list <strong>of</strong><br />
species associated with Veracruz conifer forest soils is<br />
provided. Poster<br />
and mat+ ~-~uclei to express specific target genes involved in<br />
IR. Heterochronic overexpression <strong>of</strong> the IR regulatory genes<br />
suggests that they control also a developmental arrest which<br />
is overcome by the expression <strong>of</strong> the third mat- gene, SMRI.<br />
ARMSTRONG, TRACY R. AND *BARONI, TIMOTHY J. Symposium Presentation<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences, SUNY - College at<br />
Cortland, Cortland, NY 13045 USA. Basidiomycetes from<br />
the Cordillera Central, Republica Dominicana.<br />
A pack expedition to the Parque<br />
Bermudez in the central mountains <strong>of</strong> the Dominican<br />
AmAISE- SYLVIE, ZICKLER,<br />
CORINNE, AND "DEBUCHY, ROBERT. Institut de<br />
Genetique et Microbiologie, UMR 8621, batiment 400,<br />
Universite Paris-Sud, F-91405 Orsay cedex, France. Pahl: a<br />
member <strong>of</strong> a new class <strong>of</strong> euascomycete homeobox genes<br />
Republic in March <strong>of</strong> 1998 was conducted to ascertain the<br />
acting as repressor <strong>of</strong> microconidiogenesis in Podospora<br />
biodiversity <strong>of</strong> Basidiomycetes in that region. This expedition<br />
was a component <strong>of</strong> a National Science Foundation<br />
funded project designed to catalog Basidiomycetes <strong>of</strong> the<br />
G~~~~~~ ill^^. E~~~ though atypical dry weather condi-<br />
HOmeObOx genes are<br />
eukaryotic organism, but until now none has been idenfied in<br />
tions clearly influenced the quantity <strong>of</strong> data gathered, over<br />
forty specimens were collected and documented. This report<br />
is the first ever on Basidiomycetes for this region <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Euascom~cetes. PCR experiments with degenerate primers<br />
designed sequence in the first<br />
and third helix <strong>of</strong> homeodomain, based on an alignment <strong>of</strong><br />
Caribbean. Selected species from the fifteen different genera<br />
which were found at elevations ranging from 1500 to 3000<br />
meters are discussed and illustrated. our preliminary results<br />
suggest that the Dominican Republic, unlike the other islands<br />
hOmeodOmains us to a hOmeObOx in<br />
Podos~ora anserina. <strong>The</strong> gene* termed pah19<br />
encodes a putative protein <strong>of</strong> 610 aminoacids which contains<br />
a hOmeOdOmain with 60<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Greater Antilles, has a significant component <strong>of</strong> ~orth related to animal and yeast homeodomains than to fungal<br />
<strong>America</strong>n species <strong>of</strong> Basidiomycetes, at least in those areas<br />
dominated by the endemic Pinus occidentalis forests. Poster<br />
mating-type hoIlX20domains. Database mining also revealed<br />
a Sfrong between a regi0n upstream the PAHI<br />
homeodomain and an ORF in Magnaporthe grisea. PCR<br />
A~AISE, SYLVIE, coppm, EVELYNE, *DEBUCHY,<br />
ROBERT, ZICKLER, DENISE, AND PICARD, MAR-<br />
GUERITE. Institut de Genetique et Microbiologie, UMR<br />
8621, Batiment 400, UniversitC Paris-Sud, F-91405 Orsay<br />
cedex, France. Mating-type genes control fertilization,<br />
experiment allowed us to isolate the complete homeobox <strong>of</strong><br />
M. grisea which proved to be highly similar to that <strong>of</strong> pahl.<br />
<strong>The</strong>se results suggest that these two genes are likely to<br />
define a new class <strong>of</strong> h~meobox genes, high^ ~0nserved<br />
among the filamentous fungi. Knock-out mutant <strong>of</strong> pahl<br />
internuclear recognition, developmental arrest and<br />
recovery in Podospora anserina.<br />
displayed overproduction <strong>of</strong> microconidia, while<br />
overexpression <strong>of</strong> pahl resulted in a strong decrease <strong>of</strong><br />
14
microconidium production. <strong>The</strong>se phenotypes suggest that<br />
pahl is a repressor <strong>of</strong> microconidiogenesis. Inactivation <strong>of</strong><br />
pahl caused also hyperhyphal branching, indicating that this<br />
homeobox gene controls various developmental processes.<br />
Poster<br />
*BABCOCK,J.F., *HILL, G.T., AND TURGEON,B.G.<br />
Cornell Center for Fungal Biology, Cornell University,<br />
Ithaca, NY 14853 USA. Fungi <strong>of</strong> the Lindsay-Parsons<br />
Biodiversity Preserve.<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
cacao, and sycamore plants indicate strong host-specificity<br />
within the three fungal lineages. Each host group also has a<br />
distinct mycelial morphology. Results <strong>of</strong> this study suggests<br />
that host specialization has been the major force driving<br />
speciation <strong>of</strong> these three lineages, and division <strong>of</strong> the Latin<br />
<strong>America</strong>n clade <strong>of</strong> C. fimbriata into three separate species<br />
may be warranted. Such division would facilitate cornmuni-<br />
cation and aid in the development <strong>of</strong> effective disease<br />
management strategies. Contributed Presentation<br />
In February <strong>of</strong> 1998, a unique agreement was reached among<br />
industry, conservationists, and academia. Researchers at<br />
Cornell University were granted access to the 297-acre<br />
~ i ~ Biodiversity d Preserve ~ in ~ upstate ~ New York -<br />
to bioprospect for new pharmaceutical compounds and to<br />
assess fungal diversity on this site. We are collecting,<br />
*BALASUBRAMANIAN, S.l, HIREMATH, S.2 AND<br />
PODILA, G.K.' lBiological Sciences, Michigan Technological<br />
University, Houghton MI 49931USA, USDA-NEFES,<br />
Delaware, ~ ~ OH 43015 ~ USA. ~ Cloning ~ and characterization<br />
~<br />
<strong>of</strong> ~~mbiosis-regulated malate s~nthase from the<br />
ectomycorrhizal fungus Laccuria bicolor.<br />
documenting, identifying by molecular and conventional In order to better utilize the benefits <strong>of</strong> the ectomycorrhizal<br />
methodology, culturing, and storing fungi found on the symbiosis, it is important to understand the molecular basis<br />
Preserve. In addition, high-throughput molecular methods <strong>of</strong> the association. Establishment <strong>of</strong> symbiosis is an active<br />
for rapid identification are being developed. A portion <strong>of</strong> any process involving modulation <strong>of</strong> expression <strong>of</strong> several genes.<br />
money raised from newly developed pharmaceuticals will be We are investigating the genetics <strong>of</strong> metabolic shifts in the<br />
contributed back to the Finger Lakes Land Trust for conser- early stages <strong>of</strong> the symbiotic interaction between the fungal<br />
vation efforts. During the first 18 months <strong>of</strong> the project partner Laccaria bicolor and red pine (Pinus resinosa). We<br />
standard operating protocols, including an infrastructure to have identified a peroxisomal malate synthase that is<br />
manage our data, were established. Collection information, differentially expressed during early stages <strong>of</strong> symbiotic<br />
images, and other selected data are available to the public interaction. Determination <strong>of</strong> differential gene expression,<br />
through a web-site constructed to showcase the project. After biochemical characterization <strong>of</strong> the recombinant protein, and<br />
two collecting seasons we have documented over 300 expression under altered carbon sources suggest that malate<br />
taxonomically diverse species <strong>of</strong> fungi. We have obtained synthase is induced by host plant signals and is involved in<br />
ITS sequence data for more than two thirds <strong>of</strong> these speci- the flux <strong>of</strong> two-carbon skeletons generated from fatty acid<br />
mens. With our protocols and infrastructure now in place, it oxidation towards the synthesis <strong>of</strong> carbohydrates. <strong>The</strong>se<br />
is expected that our total species count will increase drarnati- studies will help understand the metabolic shifts in establishcally<br />
during the next collecting season. Poster<br />
ment <strong>of</strong> the ectomycorrhizal symbiosis. Poster<br />
*BAKER, CHRISTINE J. AND HARRINGTON, THOMAS *BANUETT, FLORA, SHERMOEN, TONY, AND<br />
C. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology, Iowa State University, Arnes IA HERSKOWITZ, IRA. Department <strong>of</strong> Biochemistry and<br />
500 1 1 USA. Host-specialized Cerutocystisfimbriata on Biophysics, University <strong>of</strong> California San Francisco, San<br />
cacao, sweetpotato and sycamore. Francisco, CA 94143-0448 USA. <strong>The</strong> actin and tubulin<br />
Ceratocystisfimbriata is a fungal plant pathogen that causes<br />
severe wilt-type diseases on a wide variety <strong>of</strong> economically<br />
cytoskeleton and morphogenesis in the 'Om smut fungus<br />
Ustilago maydis.<br />
important temperate and tropical plants, especially in the Ustilago maydis, a Basidiomycete fungus, is the causal agent<br />
<strong>America</strong>s. Phylogenetic analysis <strong>of</strong> rDNA ITS sequences <strong>of</strong> corn smut disease. <strong>The</strong> fungal life cycle is characterized<br />
suggests that C. fimbriata contains several cryptic species in by several morphological transitions, the most studied being<br />
at least two major clades, one centered in North <strong>America</strong> and the switch from the unicellular yeast-like form to the<br />
another primarily in Latin <strong>America</strong>. <strong>The</strong> Latin <strong>America</strong>n filamentous form. This switch also entails a change from a<br />
clade includes isolates from sycamore in the eastern USA, non-pathogenic to a pathogenic state. U. maydis undergoes<br />
isolates collected in Latin <strong>America</strong>, and isolates from hosts other morphological transitions within the infected plant,<br />
native to that area that have been introduced elsewhere. leading ultimately to formation <strong>of</strong> round spores (teliospores).<br />
Within this clade, ITS sequences and DNA fingerprints using In order to identify the machinery involved in morphogen-<br />
(CAT)5 and (CAC)5 markers group isolates collected from esis, we have taken a multipronged approach which includes:<br />
sweet potato, cacao, and sycamore into three monophyletic 1)the isolation <strong>of</strong> mutants with altered morphology or<br />
lineages. Inoculation studies comparing percent mortality inability to undergo the dimorphic switch, 2) the construction<br />
and the linear extent <strong>of</strong> xylem staining in sweet potato, <strong>of</strong> mutants defective in candidate genes, and 3) the character-<br />
15
ization <strong>of</strong> the actin and tubulin cytoskeleton in wildtype and<br />
mutant strains. Both the actin and tubulin cytoskeleton have<br />
been implicated in morphogenesis. We will describe the<br />
characterization <strong>of</strong> the actin and tubulin cytoskeleton in<br />
wildtype and mutant strains. In addition, we will present<br />
preliminary results on the genetic analysis <strong>of</strong> some <strong>of</strong> the<br />
morphological mutants. Symposium Presentation<br />
BARKER, F.K. AND LUTZONI, F. Department <strong>of</strong> Orni-<br />
thology, <strong>America</strong>n Museum <strong>of</strong> Natural History; and,<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Botany, Field Museum <strong>of</strong> Natural History.<br />
Spurious rejection <strong>of</strong> partition homogeneity by the ILD<br />
test: A simulation study.<br />
Rejecting the null hypothesis <strong>of</strong> homogeneity among data<br />
partitions in phylogenetic analysis has been interpreted as an<br />
indication <strong>of</strong> recombination in hypothetically clonal<br />
organisms. Given the biological significance attached to<br />
incongruence, critical evaluation the performance <strong>of</strong><br />
congruence tests should be made. One such test is the<br />
Incongruence Length Difference (ILD) test proposed by<br />
Farris et al. (1995, Cladistics 10: 315-19). This test com-<br />
pares the amount <strong>of</strong> inferred homoplasy required on the<br />
shortest tree from the combined data to that inferred on trees<br />
resulting from separate analyses. This amount <strong>of</strong> "extra<br />
homoplasy" is evaluated against a null distribution gener-<br />
ated by permutation <strong>of</strong> characters among partitions. <strong>The</strong><br />
performance <strong>of</strong> this test was evaluated via randomization<br />
experiments and simulation. Comparisons <strong>of</strong> perfectly-<br />
structured binary data to various forms <strong>of</strong> randomized data<br />
on eight taxon trees indicate that the ILD test spuriously<br />
rejects homogeneity near the alphaO.O1 level. This result is<br />
extended to data sets with four character states (as in DNA<br />
sequences) by simulation studies. <strong>The</strong> ILD test appears to be<br />
overly sensitive to extreme differences in levels <strong>of</strong> ho-<br />
moplasy among partitions, and other alternatives for testing<br />
incongruence, possibly including a modification <strong>of</strong> the ILD<br />
procedure, should be pursued. Symposium Presentation<br />
"BARTNICKI-GARCIA, SALOMON AND GIERZ,<br />
GERHARD. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology and Dept, <strong>of</strong> Math-<br />
ematics, University <strong>of</strong> California, Riverside, California<br />
92521 USA. Mathematical bases for the roles <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Spitzenkorper and turgor pressure in hyphal morpho-<br />
genesis.<br />
Our earlier 2-D model <strong>of</strong> morphogenesis predicted that the<br />
Spitzenkorper functions as a vesicle supply center (VSC).<br />
<strong>The</strong> linear advancement <strong>of</strong> the VSC generates a polarized<br />
gradient <strong>of</strong> exocytosis responsible for the formation <strong>of</strong> a<br />
hyphal tube. A simple mathematical equation y x cot (xV/IV)<br />
describes both the growth process and cell shape (hyphoid<br />
curve) in 2-D. This model, however, was insufficient to<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
explain shape in 3-D. Additional information was needed on<br />
the pattern <strong>of</strong> wall expansion. This was obtained by map-<br />
ping the movement <strong>of</strong> surface markers in hyphae <strong>of</strong> Rhizoc-<br />
tonia solani (S. Bartnicki-Garcia, C. E. Bracker, G. Gierz,<br />
R. Lopez-Franco, and H. Lu, submitted). Both external<br />
(carbon particles) and internal (wall irregularities) markers<br />
were found to follow orthogonal trajectories: regardless <strong>of</strong><br />
initial position on the apex, the markers moved perpendicu-<br />
lar to the cell surface. <strong>The</strong> orthogonal pattern <strong>of</strong> wall<br />
expansion requires an internal force that would act perpen-<br />
dicular to the cell surface over the entire growing tip. This<br />
conclusion supports the long-held view that turgor pressure<br />
is the force driving cell wall expansion, and rejects recent<br />
speculation on the cytoskeleton being a driving force in<br />
apical growth. A 3-D version <strong>of</strong> the hyphoid model was<br />
formulated with a 3-D VSC, as the primary shape generator,<br />
and orthogonal wall expansion as the secondary shape<br />
modulator. Contributed Presentation<br />
*BARTNICKI-GARCIA, SALOMON, RIQUELME,<br />
MERITXELL AND GIERZ, GERHARD. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant<br />
Pathology and Dept. <strong>of</strong> Mathematics, University <strong>of</strong> California,<br />
Riverside, California 92521 USA. Dynein and<br />
dynactin mutants <strong>of</strong> Neurospora crassa have impaired<br />
Spitzenkorper function and abnormal hyphal morphogenesis.<br />
Two ropy mutants <strong>of</strong> Neurospora crassa, ro-1 and ro-3,<br />
deficient in dynein and dynactin, respectively, were examined<br />
by video microscopy and image analysis. Contrary to<br />
the regular, hyphoid morphology <strong>of</strong> wild-type hyphae, ropy<br />
mutants exhibited a great variety <strong>of</strong> distorted, non-hyphoid<br />
morphologies. Ropy hyphae grew slowly with frequent loss<br />
<strong>of</strong> directionality. Organelle distribution and movement were<br />
ostensibly different in ropy hyphae. <strong>The</strong> Spitzenkorper<br />
(Spk) <strong>of</strong> wild-type hyphae was readily seen by phase<br />
contrast optics; the Spk <strong>of</strong> both ro-1 and ro-3 was less<br />
prominent and sometimes undetectable. Growth rate<br />
correlated positively with Spk size. A salient difference<br />
between ropy mutants and wild-type hyphae was in Spk<br />
trajectory. <strong>The</strong> wild-type Spk maintained a steady trajectory<br />
close to the cell axis while the ropy Spk moved much more<br />
erratically. Sustained departures in Spk trajectory produced<br />
corresponding distortions in hyphal morphology. Computer<br />
simulations (Fungus Simulator) <strong>of</strong> growth <strong>of</strong> wild-type or<br />
ropy hyphae showed a causal correlation between Spk<br />
trajectory and cell shape. This is further evidence that the<br />
Spk controls hyphal morphology by operating as a vesicle<br />
supply center. Clearly, microtubule-associated motor<br />
proteins play a major role in the formation and positioning<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Spk with dramatic consequences on hyphal growth<br />
and morphogenesis. Symposium Presentation
*BAUMGARTNER, KENDRA AND RIZZO, DAVID M.<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology, University <strong>of</strong> California, Davis,<br />
CA 95616 USA. Population genetics <strong>of</strong> Annillaria mellea<br />
in a mixed-hardwood forest in Northern California.<br />
<strong>The</strong> population structure <strong>of</strong> the root pathogen Armillaria<br />
mellea is presented for a population gathered from a mixed<br />
hardwood forest, consisting primarily <strong>of</strong> Quercus species, in<br />
the coastal mountains <strong>of</strong> Northern California. Samples were<br />
collected from 20 sites over an area <strong>of</strong> approximately 20<br />
hectares. Trees were sampled for mycelial fans, decay,<br />
rhizomorphs, and fruiting bodies. Locations <strong>of</strong> sampled host<br />
trees were documented with a global positioning system.<br />
Based on molecular markers and somatic incompatibility<br />
tests, a total <strong>of</strong> 45 genets were identified from 300 isolates.<br />
Single-stranded comformational polymorphisms (SSCPs) <strong>of</strong><br />
several loci, including ITS I and IGS I, were used to<br />
distinguish homozygotes and heterozygotes. For analysis,<br />
genets collected near each other were grouped into subpopu-<br />
lations, each with an equal number <strong>of</strong> genets, sharing none<br />
in common. Inbreeding was detected within subpopulations<br />
when heterozygosity was partitioned into a hierarchical<br />
genetic structure using F-statistics. Local nonrandom mating<br />
is likely due to limited spore-dispersal distance. Contributed<br />
Presentation<br />
BEAKES, GORDON W. AND CANTER, HILDA M. Dept.<br />
<strong>of</strong> Biological & Nutritional Sciences, Newcastle University,<br />
Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK. Star Wars - a review<br />
<strong>of</strong> chytrid parasites <strong>of</strong> algae.<br />
For a long time it was thought that chytridiomycete fungi<br />
were saprotrophs <strong>of</strong> freshwater algae, only infecting<br />
moribund hosts and speeding, rather than initiating, the<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
BEAKES, GORDON W. AND TREWELLA W. Dept. <strong>of</strong><br />
Biological & Nutritional Sciences, Newcastle University,<br />
Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK and Biodiversity<br />
Consortium, School <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences, <strong>The</strong> University<br />
<strong>of</strong> Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD UK. Developing a<br />
computer assisted learning tutorial on fungal diversity.<br />
In the early 1990s the Teaching & Learning Technology<br />
Programme decided to encourage the development <strong>of</strong><br />
computer assisted learning packages for use in British<br />
universities. This included funding the development <strong>of</strong><br />
biodiversity teaching material, in recognition <strong>of</strong> the loss <strong>of</strong><br />
taxonomic specialists from many institutions. I started work<br />
on the development <strong>of</strong> a virtual fungus foray in 1995 but the<br />
project had to be shelved when funds ran out. We decided to<br />
make use <strong>of</strong> much <strong>of</strong> the introductory material we had<br />
assembled to produce an introductory teaching package on<br />
mycology. Most <strong>of</strong> the development <strong>of</strong> the unit took place in<br />
the first three months <strong>of</strong> 1997. <strong>The</strong> tutorial consists <strong>of</strong> the<br />
following sections: An overview <strong>of</strong> fungi, Fungal Systemat-<br />
ics &Evolution, Fungal Diversity, Fungal Morphology,<br />
Fungal Nutrition & Metabolism, Fungal Growth & Repro-<br />
duction, Fungal Life Cycles and finally Fungi & Man. <strong>The</strong>se<br />
tutorials are designed challenge students with questions (not<br />
all <strong>of</strong> which are answered) so that they must make use <strong>of</strong><br />
lecture material, textbooks and other sources <strong>of</strong> information<br />
to complete the unit. For instance <strong>The</strong> Fungi & Man section<br />
simply gives students a reading list and then quizzes them<br />
with an interactive computerised test. Some <strong>of</strong> the benefits<br />
and limitations <strong>of</strong> this approach will be reviewed, as will the<br />
problems <strong>of</strong> sustaining such developments on short-term<br />
funding. Symposium Presentation<br />
decline <strong>of</strong> their host populations. <strong>The</strong> long-term studies <strong>of</strong> *BEDARDy JAMES E.J.l, KLASSENl GLEN R.'l AND DE<br />
chytrids infecting planktonic diatoms in the English Lake COCK, ARTHUR W.A.M.2 'Dept. <strong>of</strong> Microbiology,<br />
District conclusively demonstrated that many chytrids were<br />
genuine pathogens <strong>of</strong> algae. ~h~~~ parasites were only able<br />
to infect exponentially growing hosts and severe infections<br />
led directly to the decline <strong>of</strong> the infected populations. In<br />
addition, these chytrid parasites mirrored their plant<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada R ~T 2~2,<br />
2Centraalbureau voor Schimmelcultures, Yeast Division,<br />
Julianalaan 67,2628 BC Delft, Netherlands. 5s ribosomal<br />
RNA gene organization in Phytophthora and<br />
Halophytophthora.<br />
pathogen counterparts, in showing host specific races within Over 40 isolates <strong>of</strong> Phytophthora and Halophytophthora<br />
the same species and some strains even elicited a 'hypersen- representing 30 different species were surveyed for their 5s<br />
sitive' type <strong>of</strong> host response. This review will be illustrated ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene organization. <strong>The</strong> predomiwith<br />
reference to experimental and ultrastructural studies on nant pattern found was that the 5s gene is linked and nona<br />
number <strong>of</strong> chytrid pathogens <strong>of</strong> the planktonic diatoms inverted in orientation with respect to the other rRNA genes<br />
Asterionella Fragillaria and Synedra and <strong>of</strong> the<br />
<strong>of</strong> the ribosomal DNA (rDNA) repeat. A few species <strong>of</strong><br />
cyanobacterium, Planktothrix (Oscillatoria) agardhii. Phytophthora and Halophytophthora have their 5s genes<br />
Finally, the value <strong>of</strong> laser scanning confocal microscopy to unlinked to the rDNA repeat and located in 5s tandem<br />
study these parasites will be briefly evaluated. Symposium arrays. This confirms earlier findings with the genus<br />
Presentation<br />
Pythium which indicated that 5s genes are readily rearranged<br />
but that 5s family organization is stable in large<br />
groups <strong>of</strong> related species. Poster
BELL, ANN E. AND *MAHONEY, DANIEL P. Mole End,<br />
45 Gurney Road, Lower Hutt, New Zealand. Coprophilous<br />
Ascomycetes <strong>of</strong> Australia: an ABRS publication preview.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Australian Biological Resources Study (ABRS) began in<br />
1973. This government funded project "aims to provide the<br />
underlying taxonomic knowledge for the conservation and<br />
sustainable use <strong>of</strong> Australia's biodiversity" (see<br />
www.anbg.gov.au:80/abrs/). Approximately 60 volumes on<br />
the fungi are planned. Volume IA was published in 1996.<br />
Dung collection for the present project (Bell, 1998-) is<br />
organized by Tom May and Pat Grey at the Melbourne<br />
Botanic Garden Herbarium. Collectors are members <strong>of</strong><br />
Fungimap, an organization <strong>of</strong> volunteer naturalists. Dung<br />
sent to Melbourne is forwarded to New Zealand and exam-<br />
ined there in quarantine facilities. To date 115 species <strong>of</strong><br />
Ascomycetes have been identified. New, common and<br />
problematic genera and species will be discussed and<br />
illustrated. Contributed Presentation<br />
*BELL-PEDERSEN, DEBORAH, BOBROWICZ, PIOTR,<br />
LOWE, REBECCA, MILLER, AMY, SHEN, WEI-<br />
CHIANG, AND EBBOLE, DAN. Texas A&M University,<br />
College Station TX 77843 USA. <strong>The</strong> pheromone precursor<br />
genes <strong>of</strong> Neurospora crassa.<br />
We have identified and begun to characterize the genes<br />
encoding the sex pheromones <strong>of</strong> Neurospora crassa. One<br />
gene, expressed in mat-A strains, encodes a polypeptide<br />
containing multiple repeats <strong>of</strong> a putative pheromone sequence<br />
bordered by KEX2 processing sites. <strong>The</strong> predicted<br />
sequence <strong>of</strong> the pheromone is remarkably similar to those<br />
encoded by the rice blast fungus, Magnaporthe grisea, and<br />
the chestnut blight fungus, Cryphonectria parasitica. mat-a<br />
strains express a pheromone precursor gene whose polypeptide<br />
contains a C-terminal CAAX motif predicted to produce<br />
a mature pheromone with a C-terminal carboxy-methyl<br />
isoprenylated cysteine. <strong>The</strong> pheromone precursor genes are<br />
regulated by nutrients, macroconidiation, and the circadian<br />
clock, but display strict mating type specificity. Inactivation<br />
<strong>of</strong> the mfA gene by RIP results in reduced male fertility.<br />
Symposium Presentation<br />
*BELLING, REBECCA A.', MILLER JR., ORSON K.',<br />
AND EICK, MATTHEW J.2 ]Department <strong>of</strong> Biology,<br />
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University,<br />
Blacksburg VA 26061 USA and 2Department <strong>of</strong> Crop and<br />
Soil Environmental Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute<br />
and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA. Interac-<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
Studies report that ectomycorrhizas play a significant role in<br />
protecting their host plants from metal toxicity in polluted<br />
environments. <strong>The</strong> extent and mechanism <strong>of</strong> protection is not<br />
consistent for all host-fungal relationships. In some cases,<br />
fungi that showed great tolerance for a given metal in vitro<br />
gave little protection to a host plant. Our research explores<br />
the question <strong>of</strong> metal tolerance <strong>of</strong> three ectomycorrhizal<br />
species in pure culture and with a plant host. <strong>The</strong> metal<br />
tolerance <strong>of</strong> mycorrhizal isolates, as indicated by colony<br />
diameter and fungal biomass, was determined by growth on<br />
copper and zinc amended media. As soils high in organic<br />
matter will bind metals and render them unavailable to the<br />
biota, analysis was performed to determine threshold levels<br />
<strong>of</strong> metal absorption by the soil. This knowledge will result in<br />
knowing the availability <strong>of</strong> certain metals. <strong>The</strong> true impact <strong>of</strong><br />
the metals on mycorrhizal systems can then be assessed with<br />
increased accuracy. <strong>The</strong> impact <strong>of</strong> these findings and how<br />
they direct the ongoing research in metal toxicity in mycor-<br />
rhizal systems will be discussed. Contributed Presentation<br />
BERBEE, MARY L. Department <strong>of</strong> Botany, University <strong>of</strong><br />
British Columbia, Vancouver BC V6T 124 Canada. Superficial<br />
similarity and phylogenetic diversity <strong>of</strong> asexual forms<br />
in the Pleosporales.<br />
We are using a combination <strong>of</strong> rRNA and protein coding<br />
genes to study the phylogeny <strong>of</strong> species in the Pleosporales<br />
species having Drechslera, Bipolaris and Phoma asexual<br />
states. Careful morphological studies led to the segregation<br />
<strong>of</strong> Drechslera and Bipolaris from Helminthosporium. Using<br />
rRNA sequences, Olivier et al. have shown that<br />
Helminthosporium sensu strico is related to Leptosphaeria<br />
bicolol: In contrast, the form genera segregated from<br />
Helminthosporium, and their corresponding teleomorphs,<br />
form a monophyletic group together with Pleospora and<br />
Lewia. <strong>The</strong> large, transversely septate conidia evolved<br />
convergently in the Helminthosporium and the Drechslera<br />
groups. Phoma is a morphologically simple form genus<br />
including 2000 taxonomically challenging fungi, most with<br />
no known sexual state. Analysis <strong>of</strong> a 700 bp fragment <strong>of</strong> the<br />
18s rRNA gene from Phoma isolates representing four <strong>of</strong> the<br />
five sections in the genus identifies one monophyletic group<br />
including the type species P. herbarum in the Pleosporales.<br />
However, at least two species fall outside this monophyletic<br />
group, and one species is not in the Pleosporales at all. <strong>The</strong><br />
morphologically simple form genus Phoma conceals<br />
phylogenetic diversity. Contributed Presentation<br />
tions <strong>of</strong> copper and zinc with three species <strong>of</strong><br />
*BERGEMANN, SARAH E. AND MILLER, STEVEN L.<br />
ectomycorrhizal fungi..<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Wyoming, Department <strong>of</strong> Botany, Aven Nelson<br />
Bldg., PO Box 3165 Laramie, WY 82071-3165 USA. Genet<br />
levels <strong>of</strong> trace such as copper and zinc, appear size in the ectomycorrhizal fungus, Russula<br />
commonly in North <strong>America</strong>n soils as a result <strong>of</strong> industrial<br />
brevipes.<br />
activity. High concentrations can eliminate much <strong>of</strong> the<br />
existing plant population and prevent seedling establishment. <strong>The</strong> late-stage ectOm~cOrrhizal fungi
is poorly understood. In an effort to elucidate the relative<br />
importance <strong>of</strong> basidiospores and vegetative mycleia <strong>of</strong><br />
Russula brevipes associated with 150+ year stands <strong>of</strong><br />
lodgepole pine in the Rocky Mountains, we have tentatively<br />
mapped and identified the genotypes <strong>of</strong> sporocarps associ-<br />
ated with lodgepole pine in two sites separated by 3 mi. In<br />
July and August <strong>of</strong> 1999, forty sporocarps were collected and<br />
all possible genotypes distinguished using Amplified<br />
Fragment Length Polymorphisms (AFLP's). Two primer<br />
combinations yielded a total <strong>of</strong> 20 unambiguous, variable<br />
alleles. From the forty sporocarps analyzed, eight distinct<br />
genotypes were identified from an UPGMA phenogram<br />
constructed from a similarity matrix utilizing Jaccard's<br />
coefficient. Most <strong>of</strong> the sporocarps collected comprised two<br />
large genets (50 m apart) in the two areas while 10 sporo-<br />
carps comprised 6 genotypes. <strong>The</strong> large genet sizes obtained<br />
in the two areas indicate that Russula brevipes is establishing<br />
through mycelial expansion with the possibility <strong>of</strong> infrequent<br />
establishment through basidiospores. Current studies are<br />
underway to assess if the distribution <strong>of</strong> the mycorrhizae<br />
below-ground is reflective <strong>of</strong> the local genetic structure<br />
observed above-ground in the sporocarps. Poster<br />
*BIDARTONDO, MARTIN I. AND BRUNS, THOMAS D.<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Environmental Science, Policy & Management, 11 1<br />
Koshland Hall, University <strong>of</strong> California, Berkeley, CA<br />
94720-3102 USA. Extreme specificity is widespread<br />
among monotrope mycorrhizal parasites.<br />
<strong>The</strong> monotropes (Ericaceae) are non-photosynthetic plants<br />
that obtain, rather than provide, fixed carbon from their<br />
fungal mycorrhizal associates. <strong>The</strong>se fungi also form<br />
ectomycorrhizae with neighboring photosynthetic plants that<br />
likely serve as the original carbon source for the monotropes.<br />
To determine if different monotrope lineages are specifically<br />
dependent on different lineages <strong>of</strong> fungi, we obtained fungal<br />
mtLSU andlor NITS sequence data from the mycorrhizal<br />
fungi <strong>of</strong> 164 plants from 9 monotrope species. To place these<br />
fungi in a phylogenetic context, we obtained nrITS sequence<br />
data from 157 basidiocarps. In addition, we obtained<br />
monotrope nrLSU and nrITS sequence data. We found that<br />
11 distinct monotrope lineages are specialized to clades<br />
within only 5 monophyletic groups <strong>of</strong> ectomycorrhizal fungi:<br />
Sarcodes and Pterospora associate with Rhizopogon section<br />
Amylopogon species complexes; Pleuricospora with a<br />
Gautieria species complex.; Hemitomes with species in the<br />
<strong>The</strong>lephoraceae; Pityopus, Monotropa hypopithys and<br />
Allotropa with Tricholoma spp.; and Monotropastrum and<br />
Monotropa uniflora with species in the Russulaceae. Each<br />
plant lineage associates with a group <strong>of</strong> closely related fungi<br />
and, following jumps to distant fungi over evolutionary time,<br />
there is evidence <strong>of</strong> radiation coupled to phylogenetic<br />
tracking. Contributed Presentation<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
*BINDER, MANFRED, HIBBETT, DAVID S. AND<br />
MOLITORIS, HANS P. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biology, Clark University,<br />
Worcester MA 01610 USA. Evolutionary origins <strong>of</strong> Nia<br />
vibrissa.<br />
<strong>The</strong> marine wood-degrading gasteromycete Nia vibrissa has<br />
a cosmopolitan distribution along seashore areas. Subglobose<br />
basidiocarps are solitary or gregarious on driftwood and have<br />
villous or smooth surfaces. <strong>The</strong> peridium consists <strong>of</strong> thick<br />
walled hyphae, converting towards the outside to elongated<br />
hairs with conspicuous hooked tips. Basidiospores maturing<br />
within a gleba are furnished with several whip-like appendices,<br />
which superficially resemble floating structures on<br />
spores <strong>of</strong> certain marine ascomycetes. <strong>The</strong>se unique anatomical<br />
and morphological characters provide few clues to the<br />
evolutionary origins <strong>of</strong> Nia vibrissa. We are using molecular<br />
sequence data from several nuclear and mitochondria1 rRNA<br />
regions to resolve the placement <strong>of</strong> this fungus. Preliminary<br />
analyses suggest that Nia vibrissa is nested among the<br />
euagarics clade, but the exact placement is not well resolved.<br />
We will present results <strong>of</strong> additional analyses aimed at<br />
refining the phylogenetic position <strong>of</strong> this unusual basidiomycete.<br />
Contributed Presentation<br />
BLACKWELL, M. Department <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences,<br />
Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge LA 70803. <strong>The</strong><br />
impact <strong>of</strong> molecular systematics on mycology instruction.<br />
Phylogenetic trees provide logical vehicles for learning and<br />
teaching classification <strong>of</strong> organisms at any level: a tree<br />
reflects our best hypothesis <strong>of</strong> the moment <strong>of</strong> genetic<br />
relatedness, a goal <strong>of</strong> phylogenetic classifications that gives<br />
credible predictive value; a tree provides an measure <strong>of</strong><br />
relationships among and between groups, thus allowing both<br />
grouping and ranking; a tree provides a basis for the evaluation<br />
<strong>of</strong> evolutionary changes in morphological traits, and the<br />
mapping <strong>of</strong> the traits on trees <strong>of</strong>fers an effective mnemonic<br />
device; a tree that can be taken in at a glance beats memorizing<br />
lots <strong>of</strong> long names. Students with little previous experience<br />
can prerform experiments using minimal amounts <strong>of</strong><br />
s<strong>of</strong>tware and public domain data bases to develop their own<br />
molecular phylogenies for use as statements <strong>of</strong> classification.<br />
Such exercises provide a deeper understanding <strong>of</strong> the way in<br />
which phylogenies can be generated and how addition,<br />
subtraction, and correction <strong>of</strong> data affect the process;<br />
students should be more understanding and accepting <strong>of</strong><br />
changes later in life. Symposium Presentation<br />
BLACKWELL, WILL H. AND "POWELL, MARTHA J.<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences, <strong>The</strong> University <strong>of</strong> Alabama,<br />
Tuscaloosa AL 35487 USA. Internal sporangial proliferation<br />
in Chytridium lagenariu Schenk.<br />
Chytridium lagenaria and several potentially related<br />
Chytridium species exhibit a relatively complex, endo-
exogenous mode <strong>of</strong> thallus development, involving forma-<br />
tion <strong>of</strong> the sporangium and the resting spore from a genera-<br />
tive apophysis. Such apophysal development constituted part<br />
<strong>of</strong> the basis <strong>of</strong> a proposed segregate genus, Diplochytridum<br />
Karling. Internal sporangial proliferation is <strong>of</strong> sporadic<br />
occurrence in Chytridiomycetes. Within Chytridium, it<br />
occurs in C. proliferum, a nonapophysate species. However,<br />
internal sporangial proliferation has been unreported in the<br />
Diplochytridium group <strong>of</strong> Chytridium species. We document<br />
numerous instances <strong>of</strong> internal proliferation in C. lagenaria<br />
parasitic on Cladophora sp. Several proliferations may occur<br />
successively within a sporangium. <strong>The</strong> morphological/<br />
developmental characteristics by which true internal prolif-<br />
eration (originating from the upper rhizoidal system) may be<br />
distinguished from a pseudo-internal proliferation (resultant<br />
from germination <strong>of</strong> zoospores trapped within the original<br />
sporangium) should be carefully examined in each chytrid<br />
taxon allegedly possessing sporangial proliferation. Internal<br />
sporangial proliferation would appear to afford a<br />
Chytridiomycete a comparatively rapid means <strong>of</strong> increased<br />
zoospore production. Poster<br />
*BOYD, MARIA L. AND COTTY, PETER J. Southern<br />
Regional Research Center, USDA-ARS, New Orleans, LA<br />
70 124 USA. Aspergillus section Flavi associated with<br />
dung in the Sonoran desert.<br />
Aspergillusflavus and related species are commonly reported<br />
in desert habitats but their incidence in particular organic<br />
substrates is largely unknown. This study assessed the<br />
presence <strong>of</strong> Aspergillus section Flavi in dung collected in the<br />
Sonoran desert. At least 17 different types <strong>of</strong> dung belonging<br />
to carnivore, herbivore and omnivore animals was analyzed.<br />
Colony forming units (CFU) were determined for 276<br />
samples. Additionally, individual dung pellets were analyzed<br />
to assess variability and colonization patterns within a dung<br />
collection. Two species were found colonizing dung samples:<br />
A. flavus and A. tamarii. Average CFU for dung samples<br />
(14,1181g) was significantly higher than CFU for soil<br />
samples (32lg) collected in the same area. Aspergillus section<br />
Flavi was found in 80% <strong>of</strong> dung samples. Nevertheless, only<br />
39% <strong>of</strong> individual pellets were positive for A. flavus and/or<br />
A. tamarii. <strong>The</strong> increased incidence <strong>of</strong> A. flavus and related<br />
species in dung could indicate scavenging for nitrogen which<br />
is <strong>of</strong> limited availability in desert ecosystems. Dung may be<br />
an important resource exploited by the A. flavus group in<br />
desert environments and a reservoir from which it may<br />
disperse. Poster<br />
BROWNBRIDGE, MICHAEL. Univ. <strong>of</strong> Vermont, Entomology<br />
Research Laboratory, P.O. Box 53400, Burlington, VT<br />
05405-3400, USA. Insect-killing fungi: so much promise,<br />
and yet ....<br />
Historically-speaking, entomopathogenic fungi have prob-<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
20<br />
ably been isolated from a greater number <strong>of</strong> hosts, and<br />
researched on and trialed more than any other group <strong>of</strong> fungi<br />
considered for use as biocontrol agents. In spite <strong>of</strong> the great<br />
promise held by these microbes (check out the number <strong>of</strong><br />
publications which state this), there have been many impedi-<br />
ments to their commercialization. In the past 10 years,<br />
though, significant advances in fermentation and formulation<br />
technologies have facilitated the production <strong>of</strong> large quanti-<br />
ties <strong>of</strong> high-quality, stable inoculum for use against a variety<br />
<strong>of</strong> insect pests worldwide. And yet, these products are based<br />
on no more than a handful <strong>of</strong> strains, and their commercial<br />
future is tenuous at best. Furthermore, in spite <strong>of</strong> the fact that<br />
new regulations in many parts <strong>of</strong> the world are promoting<br />
IPM strategies incorporating biological controls and opportu-<br />
nities are better than ever before for these fungal-based<br />
products to succeed, fungi are still an under-utilized resource<br />
in the pest management arena. This presentation will focus<br />
on some <strong>of</strong> the factors that need to be addressed to turn this<br />
'potential' into a 'reality', including research needs to<br />
increase efficacy and reliability, regulatory changes to make<br />
it easier to produce, register and market fungal products, and<br />
educational needs to increase growers' acceptance and use <strong>of</strong><br />
these microbes. Symposium Presentation<br />
BRUCKART, WILLIAM L. USDA, ARS, FDWSRU, 1301<br />
Ditto Ave., Ft. Detrick, MD 21702 USA. Fungi for biologi-<br />
cal control <strong>of</strong> weeds.<br />
Past successes with fungi for biological control <strong>of</strong> weeds has<br />
firmly established this as a viable component <strong>of</strong> weed<br />
management. Biological control <strong>of</strong> weeds now involves<br />
laboratories and programs worldwide, having started as a<br />
concept proposed as early as 1893. <strong>The</strong> first demonstrated<br />
successes occurred in the 1970's, with introduction <strong>of</strong><br />
Puccinia chondrillina into Australia and the United States<br />
for rush skeletonweed control, and the development <strong>of</strong> both<br />
Phytophthora palmivora (for stranglervine control in citrus)<br />
and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides f. sp, aeschynomene (for<br />
northern jointvetch control in rice and soybeans), as<br />
mycoherbicides. <strong>The</strong>re are a large number <strong>of</strong> important<br />
weeds that remain as potential targets <strong>of</strong> future research.<br />
Many are resistant to chemical herbicides, and others are<br />
invasive on public lands and environmentally sensitive areas.<br />
Strong international cooperation among scientists will<br />
facilitate discovery <strong>of</strong> new organisms to use against intro-<br />
duced species. Advances in technology will enable pr<strong>of</strong>itable<br />
development and delivery <strong>of</strong> fungi for integrated weed<br />
management in the commercial sector. New arenas and novel<br />
approaches will be identified for fungi. Continued successful<br />
deployment <strong>of</strong> fungi against weeds, along with improve-<br />
ments in risk assessment, identification, and tracking, will<br />
facilitate the regulatory process and ease public concerns.<br />
Symposium Presentation
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
BUSCHBOM, JUTTAI2 AND LUTZONI, FRANCOIS1. USA, 2Department <strong>of</strong> Botany, Duke University, Durham NC<br />
'Field Museum <strong>of</strong> Natural History, Botany Dept., Chicago, 27708-0077 USA. Preliminary phylogenetic studies in the<br />
IL 60605 USA, 2University <strong>of</strong> Chicago, Committee on Hygrophoraceae.<br />
Chicago, IL 60637 USA. A <strong>The</strong> Hygrophoraceae, as currently defined, is comprised <strong>of</strong> 6<br />
phylogeny <strong>of</strong> the genus Porpidia (Porpidiaceae, genera: Camarophyllopsis, Cuphophyllus, Humidicutis,<br />
Ascomycota). Hygroaster, Hygrophorus and Hygrocybe. Both Hygrohorus<br />
<strong>The</strong> lichen-forming genus Porpidia (Porpidiaceae,<br />
Ascomycota) provides a model system for studying the<br />
evolutionary significance <strong>of</strong> sexual and asexual reproduction.<br />
<strong>The</strong> present study forms the basis for future detailed popula-<br />
tion genetic studies by analyzing the molecular phylogenetic<br />
relationships <strong>of</strong> the genus. Based on DNA-sequence varia-<br />
tion in fragments <strong>of</strong> the nuclear large subunit ribosomal RNA<br />
gene (1.4 kb) and the beta-tubulin gene (1 kb) the relation-<br />
ships within Porpidia and its relationships to closely related<br />
allies will be reconstructed. Included in the analysis are<br />
selected species <strong>of</strong> all described subgroups within the genus,<br />
representative species <strong>of</strong> potentially closely related genera<br />
within the Porpidiaceae, as well as relevant outgroup taxa.<br />
<strong>The</strong> results <strong>of</strong> both gene phylogenies will be discussed.<br />
Poster<br />
CAFARO, MATIAS J. Department <strong>of</strong> Ecology & Evolution-<br />
ary Biology. University <strong>of</strong> Kansas. Lawrence, Kansas 66045<br />
USA. Relationship <strong>of</strong> the Eccrinales to other<br />
Trichomycetes.<br />
and Hygrocybe are more speciose and are widely distributed.<br />
Most hygrophori are saprobic, and Hygrophorus is the only<br />
genus that forms mycorrhizae. Several macro- & micromor-<br />
phological characters are used to separate tribes, genera and<br />
subgenera. <strong>The</strong>re are many shared traits between<br />
Hygrophoraceae and other genera <strong>of</strong> Agaricales, particularly<br />
in the Tricholomataceae. We have undertaken a preliminary<br />
study <strong>of</strong> the phylogeny <strong>of</strong> the Hygrophoraceae based on<br />
morphological and molecular characters. Previous studies<br />
based on several nuclear and mitochondria1 ribosomal DNA<br />
genes all show the Hygrophoraceae to be related with other<br />
omphalinoid or tricholomatoid agarics, though only one (the<br />
genus Hygrophorus) is well supported by a high bootstrap<br />
value. Preliminary studies will be presented for several<br />
Hygrocybe species from North and Central <strong>America</strong> showing<br />
that there is much greater variation within the nuclear<br />
encoded ITS region, which should be useful for phylogenetic<br />
analysis. Contributed Presentation<br />
Eccrinales is one <strong>of</strong> three orders <strong>of</strong> the class Trichomycetes<br />
(Zygomycota). <strong>The</strong>se fungi inhabit the guts <strong>of</strong> diverse groups<br />
<strong>of</strong> including crustaceans, millipedes and beetles.<br />
~h~ eccrinids are diverse and widespread in aquatic, terrestrial<br />
and marine environments. <strong>The</strong>ir morphology is highly<br />
*CAMACHO, FRANCISCO, J. AND BRUNS, THOMAS,<br />
D. Department and 321<br />
Koshland Hall, University <strong>of</strong> California, Berkeley, California,<br />
94720 USA. Genet size <strong>of</strong> the edible ectomycorrhizal<br />
mushroom, Boletus edulis sensu hto, from the West Coast<br />
the United States based On AFLF'.<br />
conserved, probably due to convergent evolution as a result Boletus edulis is a species complex <strong>of</strong> an economically<br />
<strong>of</strong> adaptation to the gut. <strong>The</strong> thalli are mostly unbranched, important ectomycorrhizal mushroom in the coniferous<br />
coenocytic and produce asexual thick or thin-walled forests <strong>of</strong> the Western United States. Our research goal is to<br />
sporangiospores. No member <strong>of</strong> the group has been cultured learn more about the basic biology <strong>of</strong> the species within this<br />
axenically, making them difficult subjects to study. <strong>The</strong> complex. Our current focus is on genet size because this can<br />
relationships among the group and its affinity to the class are reveal features <strong>of</strong> colonization strategy and frequency; many<br />
still subjects <strong>of</strong> active debate. Limited data on macro- and small genets indicate multiple spore establishment events<br />
micro-morphological characters allow very few comparisons and large genets reflect vegetative spread. We have mapped<br />
between the Eccrinales and other taxa. However, there is and sampled fruitbodies from populations in the Sierra<br />
some evidence that may point to a close relationship between Nevada, the Northern California Coast, the Oregon Casthe<br />
Eccrinales and the Harpellales. Using standard PCR cades, and the Oregon Coast. We are using amplified<br />
techniques to amplify DNA from thalli stored in extraction fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) to determine genet<br />
buffer, preliminary sequence data have been obtained. sizes in these populations. At present using one primer set,<br />
Preliminary analysis <strong>of</strong> partial 18s rDNA sequences revealed we have analyzed data from two sites, one consisting <strong>of</strong> 30<br />
that species <strong>of</strong> Eccrinales are sister taxa to the Harpellales. fruitbodies in 1200 m2 and the other 40 fruitbodies in 400<br />
However, a more complete sequence data will be needed to m2. Preliminary analysis suggests most genets are small and<br />
resolve the relationships among the Eccrinales. Poster are represented by single fruitbodies. Often fruitbodies less<br />
than 50 cm apart have different genotypes. <strong>The</strong> largest genet<br />
*CANTRELL, S. A.', LODGE, D. J.', VILGALYS, R.', has 13 fruitbodies, some <strong>of</strong> which were separated by over ten<br />
AND NAKASONE, KAREN3. I3Center for Forest Mycology meters. <strong>The</strong>se results suggest that at least within these two<br />
Research, USDA-Forest Service, Forest Products Laboratory, sites, B. edulis commonly establishes by spore, and vegeta-<br />
'Luquillo PR 00773-1377, 'CFMR, Madison WI 53705-2398 tive expansion occurs rarely. Contributed Presentation<br />
2 1
*CAMARA, MARCOS P. S.', PALM, MARY E.2, VAN<br />
BERKUM, PETER', AND 0 NEILL, NICHOLE, R.'.<br />
United States Department <strong>of</strong> Agriculture, Beltsville, MD<br />
20705-2350 USA, 'Soybean and Alfalfa Research Labora-<br />
tory, Agriculture Research Service, 2Systematic Botany and<br />
Mycology Laboratory, Animal and Plant Health Inspection<br />
Service. Molecular systematics <strong>of</strong> Leptosphaeria sensu<br />
lato.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Leptosphaeria-complex (Loculoascomycetes) is charac-<br />
terized by brown, septate ascospores and pseudothecia with<br />
walls <strong>of</strong> either pseudoparenchyma or scleroplectenchyma.<br />
Morphological characters such as location <strong>of</strong> ascomata in<br />
relation to the substrate, thickness <strong>of</strong> peridium, type <strong>of</strong><br />
peridial cells, and ascospore shape, and host occurrence have<br />
been used to distinguish genera within this complex.<br />
Leptosphaeria sensu strict0 produces<br />
scleroplectenchymatous ascomata with relatively thick walls<br />
on dicotyledonous plants. Species producing smaller,<br />
pseudoparenchymatous ascomata with thinner walls mainly<br />
on monocotyledenous plants have been placed in the genus<br />
Phaeosphaeria. <strong>The</strong>re has been no consensus as to the<br />
phylogenetic significance <strong>of</strong> these morphological and<br />
ecological traits. <strong>The</strong> objective <strong>of</strong> this study was to clarify<br />
the phylogenetic relatedness <strong>of</strong> members <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Leptosphaeria-complex and evaluate the taxonomic signifi-<br />
cance <strong>of</strong> host, geographic origin, and anamorphs. <strong>The</strong> entire<br />
ITS region, including the 5.8s rDNA, <strong>of</strong> sixty-two isolates<br />
was sequenced and the estimated phylogeny was inferred<br />
using parsimony and distance methods. Isolates clustered<br />
into three well-supported clades using both methods. We<br />
conclude that anamorph, host and select ecological traits are<br />
phylogenetically significant. Poster<br />
CARBONE, IGNAZIO. Department <strong>of</strong> Botany, University<br />
<strong>of</strong> Toronto, Mississauga, ON Canada L5L 1C6. Recombination<br />
and the coalescent.<br />
Extensive recombination in the history <strong>of</strong> a sample <strong>of</strong> DNA<br />
sequences obscures phylogenetic relationships, making it<br />
difficult to distinguish between contemporary and historical<br />
recombination events. With large loci (e.g. 4000 bp) we can<br />
exploit coalescent methods to infer the pattern, magnitude<br />
and duration <strong>of</strong> recombination events. <strong>The</strong> coalescent is a<br />
statistical model <strong>of</strong> the ancestral history <strong>of</strong> DNA sequences<br />
from a single locus. In the simplest model, we assume that<br />
the locus under examination is neutral and has not undergone<br />
intragenic recombination. In theory, the coalescent can be<br />
extended to multiple loci, provided that these loci are neutral<br />
and have not undergone intergenic recombination. A unique<br />
gene tree can be inferred from each locus separately or from<br />
combined loci provided these assumptions are not violated.<br />
By comparing estimates <strong>of</strong> the time to the most recent<br />
common ancestor under a model without recombination to<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
estimates under a coalescent model with recombination, we<br />
can estimate the magnitude and duration <strong>of</strong> recombination<br />
and the timing <strong>of</strong> recombination events. From this, the<br />
relative contributions <strong>of</strong> sexual and asexual reproduction can<br />
be inferred in the context <strong>of</strong> population and species diver-<br />
gence. Symposium Presentation<br />
*CELIO, G.C.l, RICHARDSON, E.A.2, AND MIMS, C.W. I.<br />
Departments <strong>of</strong> 'Plant Pathology and 2Botany, University <strong>of</strong><br />
Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 USA. Ultrastructure <strong>of</strong> the<br />
host-pathogen interface <strong>of</strong> poinsettia powdery mildew<br />
using high pressure freezing and freeze substitution.<br />
Cry<strong>of</strong>ixation is becoming more widely used to study hostpathogen<br />
relationships in fungal diseases <strong>of</strong> plants. This<br />
presentation describes results we have obtained using high<br />
pressure freezing and freeze substitution to study powdery<br />
mildew disease <strong>of</strong> poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima)<br />
caused by Oidium sp. Leaf disks bearing sporulating colonies<br />
<strong>of</strong> Oidium sp. were excised and placed in a 15% dextran<br />
solution contained in brass planchets. Samples were frozen<br />
using a Balzer's HPM 010 High Pressure Freezing Machine<br />
and freeze substituted. Thin sections were post-stained with<br />
uranyl acetate and lead citrate, and examined using a<br />
transmission electron microscope. Outstanding preservation<br />
<strong>of</strong> haustoria was obtained; both young, unlobed as well as<br />
mature, highly lobed haustoria were observed. Each haustorium,<br />
whether young or mature, was separated from the host<br />
cell cytoplasm by the invaginated host cell plasma membrane,<br />
or extrahaustorial membrane (EHM). <strong>The</strong> EHM<br />
associated with a mature haustorium was highly convoluted.<br />
Details <strong>of</strong> the host-pathogen interface, including the EHM,<br />
the haustorium wall, and the haustorium plasma membrane,<br />
were remarkably clear. In addition, excellent preservation <strong>of</strong><br />
host cell organelles also was obtained. <strong>The</strong>se results clearly<br />
demonstrate the value <strong>of</strong> high pressure freezing for the study<br />
<strong>of</strong> precise details <strong>of</strong> the fungus-host cell interface. Contributed<br />
Presentation<br />
CERESINI, P. C.1,2, SHEW, H. D.2, VILGALYS, R.3, AND<br />
CUBETA, M. A.2. lCNPq/UNESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil,<br />
2Dept. Plant Pathol., NCSU, Raleigh, NC 27695 USA,<br />
3Dept. Botany, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708 USA.<br />
Somatic incompatibility and AFLP analyses indicate<br />
differences in the population structure <strong>of</strong> Rhizoctonia<br />
solani AG-3 associated with potato and tobacco in NC.<br />
Anastomosis group 3 is associated with R. solani diseases <strong>of</strong><br />
potato and tobacco. Although isolates from different hosts<br />
are taxonomically related, previous studies have shown<br />
differences in their biology, fatty acid composition, pathogenicity<br />
and rDNA genes. Questions remain about differences<br />
in the genetic structure <strong>of</strong> R. solani AG-3 populations. Field<br />
populations <strong>of</strong> AG-3 from potato and tobacco in NC were<br />
examined for somatic compatibility. One group <strong>of</strong> 32 isolates
from potato and another <strong>of</strong> 36 isolates from tobacco were<br />
paired in all possible combinations on PDA plus charcoal.<br />
While only 0.4% <strong>of</strong> the pairings among potato isolates<br />
exhibited somatic compatibility, 5.2% <strong>of</strong> the pairings among<br />
tobacco isolates were somatically compatible (SC). Twenty-<br />
eight SC groups were present in the potato sample, while<br />
only eight SC groups were present in the tobacco sample.<br />
DNA fingerprinting based on AFLP analyses was used, in<br />
conjunction with somatic incompatibility, to determine<br />
whether the structure <strong>of</strong> these populations was clonal and/or<br />
panmictic. <strong>The</strong>re were no genotypes <strong>of</strong> AG-3 shared among<br />
the potato and tobacco populations. <strong>The</strong> potato population<br />
was not clonal in structure but the tobacco sample had a<br />
clonal component (10 clonal isolates represented 27.8 % <strong>of</strong><br />
the total sample <strong>of</strong> 36 isolates). All eight SC groups <strong>of</strong> AG-3<br />
from tobacco were associated with more than one finger-<br />
print. Poster<br />
CERESINI, P. C. 1,2, SHEW, H. D.2, VILGALYS, R.3,<br />
ROSEWICH, U. L.4, AND CUBETA, M. A.2. 1CNPql<br />
UNESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil, 2Dep. Plant Pathology, NCSU,<br />
Raleigh, NC 27695 USA, 3Dep. Botany, Duke University,<br />
Durham, NC 27708,4USDA-ARS, Saint Paul, MN 55108.<br />
PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP)<br />
reveals both recombination and gene flow in Rhizoctonia<br />
soluni AG-3 from potato in North Carolina.<br />
A polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length<br />
polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method was used to differenti-<br />
ate between genotypes <strong>of</strong> the heterokaryotic fungus Rhizoc-<br />
tonia solani AG-3 from potatoes. Populations from five<br />
counties in North Carolina were analysed using seven<br />
polymorphic codominant single-locus PCR-RFLP markers<br />
identified after sequencing and screening anonymous DNA<br />
from a fungal genornic library. Isolates were screened using<br />
two distinct combinations <strong>of</strong> PCR product 1 polymorphic<br />
enzyme for each locus, generating two independent sets <strong>of</strong><br />
seven PCR-RFLP markers each. <strong>The</strong>re was extensive<br />
evidence for recombination within and between populations<br />
<strong>of</strong> R. solani AG-3 and high levels <strong>of</strong> gene flow. <strong>The</strong> five<br />
populations were genetically similar with one another. When<br />
data was clone-corrected and genotypes from all the popula-<br />
tions considered in the analysis, most loci did not depart<br />
from Hardy-Weinberg expectations (HWE). Random<br />
associations <strong>of</strong> alleles within and between loci were found in<br />
more than 92% <strong>of</strong> the loci or pairs <strong>of</strong> loci, indicating random<br />
mating. However, for loci that deviated from HWE, this was<br />
due to a general lack <strong>of</strong> heterozygotes, which led to positive<br />
Fis values. Findings were consistent for the two distinct sets<br />
<strong>of</strong> PCR-RFLP markers analyzed independently. Poster<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
*CHAMBERLAIN, HOLLY, L.', SAMUELS, GARY, J.',<br />
STEWART, ELWIN, L.' 'Dept. Plant Pathology, Penn State,<br />
Buckhout Lab, University Park, PA 16802 USA, 'USDA-<br />
ARS, Systematic Botany and Mycology Lab, Beltsville, MD<br />
20705 USA. Gross morphology is not phylogenetically<br />
informative in the Hypocreaceae.<br />
Podostroma (Hypocreales) has ascospore characters <strong>of</strong><br />
Hypocrea, i.e. bicellular ascospores that disarticulate at the<br />
septum, but differs from the type species, H. rufa, in having a<br />
club-shaped or stalked stromata. <strong>The</strong> anarnorph <strong>of</strong> I!<br />
alutaceum, the type species <strong>of</strong> the genus, is Trichodenna,<br />
typical <strong>of</strong> Hypocrea. Podostroma was segregated from<br />
Hypocrea on the basis <strong>of</strong> a single character, formation <strong>of</strong><br />
clavate stromata, opposed to the more typical pulvinate or<br />
discoidal stromata. Based on 28s rDNA sequence data and<br />
morphometric studies, I! alutaceum is phylogenetically<br />
placed within the presently accepted Hypocrea-clade. 28s<br />
sequence data placed other species <strong>of</strong> Podostroma in distinct<br />
clades within Hypocrea. Thus clavate stromata evolved<br />
independently more than once and the character is not useful<br />
at the generic level. Podostroma does not form a single clade<br />
within the Hypocreaceae. Neither l? alutaceum, nor any<br />
other element included in Podostroma is generically distinct<br />
from H. rufa. <strong>The</strong>refore, Podostroma is congeneric with<br />
Hypocrea and the stalked stroma is not a defining generic<br />
character. Poster<br />
*CHAMBERS, JAMES G. AND POWELL, MARTHA J.<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences, <strong>The</strong> University <strong>of</strong> Alabama,<br />
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 USA. A proposed mechanism for<br />
water mold infection <strong>of</strong> minnows.<br />
Saprolegniosis is a serious problem with commercially<br />
produced and wild fishes. Although it is known that prior<br />
injury <strong>of</strong> fishes is associated with infection, the exact<br />
mechanism <strong>of</strong> attack has not been clearly elucidated. In this<br />
study we explore the role <strong>of</strong> primary and secondary<br />
zoospores in the initial infection process <strong>of</strong> minnows. Hyphal<br />
growth in skin and body tissues is more prolific than on<br />
scales and fins; however, on the later two substrates, resistant<br />
structures (gemrnae) are formed. Encysted primary<br />
zoospores can germinate directly on scales, rather than solely<br />
releasing secondary zoospores. Germ tubes <strong>of</strong> directly<br />
germinating primary and secondary cysts are not randomly<br />
oriented on scales. When germ tube tips contact scale ridges,<br />
growth continues at right angles to the ridges. This pattern <strong>of</strong><br />
hyphal oriented growth in response to scale topology is a<br />
potential mechanism whereby water molds increase the<br />
opportunity for growth <strong>of</strong>f <strong>of</strong> scales and into vulnerable skin<br />
and visceral tissue. Oriented hyphal growth may be one <strong>of</strong><br />
multiple strategies that water molds use to increase their<br />
opportunity for infection when chance injuries or stress make<br />
fishes more susceptible to water mold attack. Poster
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
CHARCOSSET, JEAN-YVES, BINET, ESTELLE, species in the Gelatinosa group are not closely related to this<br />
BIALET-CARBONNE, EMMANUELLE AND *GARDES species. Moreover, phylogenetic analysis <strong>of</strong> ITS1,5.8s, ITS2<br />
MONIQUE. CESACICNRS Universite Paul Sabatierl nuclear ribosomal DNA sequences show convergent evolu-<br />
Toulouse 111,29111 J. Marvig, 31055 Toulouse FRANCE. tion <strong>of</strong> gliocladium-like morphology and that other species in<br />
Mycorrhizal colonization <strong>of</strong> black poplar (Populus nigra) the Gelatinosa group, with anamorphs similar to 7: virens,<br />
and diversity <strong>of</strong> ectomycorrhizal fungi on a riparian site<br />
in southwestern France.<br />
are polyphyletic. Poster<br />
Black poplar (Populus gx nigra) is a common species <strong>of</strong><br />
riparian habitats in southwestern France. Trees have been<br />
reported to be endomycorrhizal (AM), ectomycorrhizal<br />
*CHEN, WE1 AND HARRINGTON, THOMAS, C. Dept. <strong>of</strong><br />
Plant Pathology, Iowa State University, Ames IA 5001 1<br />
USA. Genetic diversity <strong>of</strong> poplar leaf rust populations in<br />
Minnesota, Iowa and Missouri.<br />
(EM), or both.We were interested to determine whether<br />
mycorhizal colonization varies in a predictable way along<br />
well defined environmentallvegetation gradients. We have<br />
identified four vegetationlsoil disturbance stages on a single<br />
site: A- barren with less than 1 year old seedlingslvery highly<br />
disturbed, B- patchy with 2-5 years old poplarsthighly<br />
disturbed, C- 10-15 years old poplarslmoderately disturbed,<br />
D- more than 25 year old poplarslrarely disturbed. Our<br />
objectives were: 1- to investigate spatial heterogeneity in: (i)<br />
mycorrhizal status and (ii) overall levels <strong>of</strong> AM and EM<br />
colonization, 2- to examine the diversity <strong>of</strong> EM fungi. We<br />
sampled roots from 10 poplars in each stage. We observed a<br />
striking change as vegetation develops: (i) no mycorrhiza in<br />
A, (ii) only AM fungi in B, (iii) both AM and EM encoun-<br />
tered simultaneously in C and D, (iv) a decrease in AM<br />
colonization percentages. We found a similar number <strong>of</strong> EM<br />
taxa ( ITS-RFLP types) in stages C and D with a majority <strong>of</strong><br />
mycorrhizas formed by few types. More than 50% <strong>of</strong> the<br />
taxa occurred on both communities. Type #2 was the<br />
dominant species. However, it had markedly different<br />
relative abundance on individual poplar trees in the two<br />
communities. Contributed Presentation<br />
"CHAVERRI, PRISCILA' AND SAMUELS, GARY, J.2.<br />
'Department <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology, PennState, Buckhout Lab,<br />
University Park, PA, USA, 2Systematic Botany and Mycology<br />
Laboratory, ARS, USDA, Beltsville, MD, USA. Convergent<br />
evolution <strong>of</strong> Gliocladium morphology in<br />
Hypocrea.<br />
. -<br />
Poplar leaf rust caused by Melampsora medusae f. sp.<br />
deltoides is a potentially important disease in plantations <strong>of</strong><br />
Populus deltoides. Sexual reproduction is on the alternate<br />
host, Larix laricina, which is native to the Great Lakes<br />
region and further north. It is hypothesized that the epidem-<br />
ics on poplar begin with aeciospores from larch, and that the<br />
fungus spreads south on poplar as the repeating uredinial<br />
stage. To test this hypothesis, genetic diversity <strong>of</strong> the fungus<br />
was studied in poplar populations within and outside the<br />
natural geographic range <strong>of</strong> larch. Specific PCR primers<br />
flanking three microsatellite regions (CAT, CAA and CAG,<br />
respectively) were developed. <strong>The</strong> three markers were highly<br />
polymorphic, with 16 alleles, 15 alleles and 8 alleles,<br />
respectively. Nine populations were sampled from three<br />
states during the early stages <strong>of</strong> the 1999 epidemic. <strong>The</strong> two<br />
populations with the highest gene diversity, the highest level<br />
<strong>of</strong> heterozygosity, and the greatest number <strong>of</strong> unique<br />
genotypes were within the natural geographic range <strong>of</strong> larch.<br />
Lower levels <strong>of</strong> gene diversity and fewer unique genotypes<br />
were found in the seven populations south <strong>of</strong> the natural<br />
range <strong>of</strong> larch. Two populations in Missouri had particularly<br />
low levels <strong>of</strong> genetic diversity. <strong>The</strong> data suggest that sexual<br />
reproduction on larch contributes to high genetic diversity.<br />
Poster<br />
*COUCH, BRETT C. AND KOHN, LINDA M. Department<br />
<strong>of</strong> Botany, University <strong>of</strong> Toronto, Mississauga, ON, Canada<br />
L5L 1C6. A multilocus gene geneology resolves two<br />
divergent clades within the rice blast fungus Pyricularia<br />
Species <strong>of</strong> Hypocrea with green ascospores have been placed<br />
in subsection Creopus. Stroma and conidiophore morphology grisea.<br />
have been used to define three artificial groups within the Pyricularia grisea and l? oryza were previously recognized<br />
subsection, viz. the Cornea, Aureoviridis and Gelatinosa as two species based on morphology and host range. l? oryza<br />
groups. <strong>The</strong> Gelatinosa group includes species with<br />
was considered to be a parasite exclusively <strong>of</strong> rice, whereas<br />
gliocladium-like anamorphs. Gliocladium s.str: is found in P: grisea infected a wide range <strong>of</strong> grass hosts. <strong>The</strong> two<br />
Sphaerostilbella and Hypocrea pallida, neither <strong>of</strong> which can epithets were synonymized under l? grisea based on morbe<br />
placed in Hypocrea. Analysis <strong>of</strong> 40 morphological phological similarities and interfertility <strong>of</strong> strains <strong>of</strong> l? oryza<br />
characters, including anamorph and teleomorph, show that and l? grisea in laboratory crosses to produce the sexual<br />
the Gelatinosa group is not monophyletic. Because the state, Magnaporthe grisea. Although isolates <strong>of</strong> l? grisea<br />
anamorph <strong>of</strong> Hypocrea gelatinosa is morphologically similar from different hosts are thought be conspecific, population<br />
to Trichodenna virens (Gliocladium virens), for which no samples from rice are genetically distinct from samples<br />
teleomorph is known, the two are predicted to be related. isolated from other hosts. I have constructed an intraspecific<br />
While molecular data place T virens within Hypocrea, most phylogeny based on DNA sequence data from six genes for<br />
24
isolates <strong>of</strong> I! grisea from seven grass species, Digitaria<br />
smutsii, D. horizontalis, Eragrostis curvula, Eleusine<br />
coracana, Setaria sp, Lolium perennae and Oryza sativa. A<br />
single most parsimonious tree with a consistency index <strong>of</strong><br />
0.985 can be constructed from the combined data set. <strong>The</strong><br />
most striking feature <strong>of</strong> this tree is the highly divergent clade<br />
containing isolates from Digitaria. This clade is separated<br />
from the clade containing isolates from the other grass hosts<br />
by 220 character state changes. Oryza isolates were also on a<br />
separate clade, but separated by fewer steps. <strong>The</strong>se strains<br />
from Digitaria may represent a distinct population <strong>of</strong> I!<br />
grisea or a new species. Contributed Presentation<br />
*COWEN, LEAH E., KOHN, LINDA M., AND ANDER-<br />
SON, JAMES B. Department <strong>of</strong> Botany, University <strong>of</strong><br />
Toronto, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada L5L 1C6. Fitness<br />
divergence associated with the evolution <strong>of</strong> drug resis-<br />
tance in experimental populations <strong>of</strong> Candida albicans.<br />
<strong>The</strong> fate <strong>of</strong> drug resistant organisms in nature depends<br />
critically on the relative fitness <strong>of</strong> sensitive and resistant<br />
genotypes. In the presence <strong>of</strong> drug, a resistant genotype is<br />
expected to be at an advantage compared to less resistant<br />
genotypes. In the absence <strong>of</strong> drug, however, resistant<br />
genotypes may be at a disadvantage compared to their<br />
sensitive counterparts. Here we measured fitness <strong>of</strong> repli-<br />
cated experimental populations <strong>of</strong> the pathogenic yeast<br />
Candida albicans. <strong>The</strong> experimental populations were<br />
founded from a single drug-sensitive cell; replicates were<br />
propagated in the presence <strong>of</strong> inhibitory concentrations <strong>of</strong><br />
fluconazole and in the absence <strong>of</strong> drug, over 330 generations.<br />
All populations grown with fluconazole evolved azole cross-<br />
resistance following different trajectories with distinctive<br />
overexpression patterns <strong>of</strong> four genes involved in azole<br />
resistance. Fitness was estimated as the difference in the<br />
number <strong>of</strong> doublings <strong>of</strong> the two competitors: (a) the evolved<br />
population, and (b) the progenitor genetically marked with<br />
resistance to mycophenolic acid. <strong>The</strong> evolved populations<br />
demonstrated striking variation in fitness both in the pres-<br />
ence and absence <strong>of</strong> drug. Our results suggest that fitness in<br />
the experimental populations under the selection imposed by<br />
drug involves trade-<strong>of</strong>fs between resistance mechanisms and<br />
cell growth parameters. Contributed Presentation<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
been recently introduced into North <strong>America</strong> we are conduct-<br />
ing a population genetic study <strong>of</strong> the fungus. We have<br />
sampled seven wild populations by isolating the fungus from<br />
up to 11 animals per population. We are using AFLP (ampli-<br />
fied fragment length polymorphisms) to fingerprint these<br />
isolates and to examine their inter- and intra-population<br />
variation. Poster<br />
"DASZAK, PETER1, CUNNINGHAM, ANDREW A.2,<br />
BERGER, LEE3, HYATT, ALEX D.3, GREEN, DAVID E.4,<br />
SPEARE, RICK5, AND PORTER, DAVID'. Dept. Botany<br />
and Institute Ecol., Univ. Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.<br />
Inst. Zool., Zool. Soc. Lond., Regents Park, London, UK. '<br />
Austr. Anim. Health Lab., CSIRO, Geelong, Victoria,<br />
Australia. USGS Natl. Wildl. Health Ctr., Madison WI,<br />
USA. James Cook Univ., Queensland, Australia.<br />
Chytridiomycosis- the cause <strong>of</strong> amphibian population<br />
declines.<br />
Amphibian populations have undergone declines globally,<br />
some to extinction. Cutaneous chytridiomycosis was<br />
described from carcasses collected at sites <strong>of</strong> amphibian<br />
mass mortality in Australia and Panama. <strong>The</strong> causative agent<br />
<strong>of</strong> chytridiomycosis, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, is a<br />
virulent pathogen <strong>of</strong> amphibians. Its presence in almost all<br />
carcasses at these sites strongly implicates chytridiomycosis<br />
as the cause <strong>of</strong> declines here, although other factors (espe-<br />
cially habitat loss) are important elsewhere. <strong>The</strong> wave-like<br />
spread <strong>of</strong> die-<strong>of</strong>fs, the wide host range <strong>of</strong> B. dendrobatidis<br />
and dramatic depopulations during outbreaks suggest recent<br />
introduction <strong>of</strong> disease into naive host populations. In some<br />
cases, chytridiomycosis has reduced host populations to zero<br />
(local extinction). Here, an ability <strong>of</strong> B. dendrobatidis to<br />
aclinically infect tadpoles and to reproduce saprophytically<br />
may allow persistence at low host densities and local<br />
extinction to occur. Chytridiomycosis occurs in some<br />
populations (e.g. lowland Australian frogs) without causing<br />
declines. An analysis <strong>of</strong> host ecology and pathogen biology<br />
suggests that low fecundity and specialized niche (cool<br />
montane rainforests) predispose select species to declines.<br />
This ongoing research demonstrates how a fusion <strong>of</strong> mycol-<br />
ogy, pathology and ecology can address fundamental<br />
questions on the emergence <strong>of</strong> infectious diseases. Sympo-<br />
sium Presentation<br />
"DASTOOR, FARAHAD P., ANNIS, SEANNA L., AND<br />
LONGCORE, JOYCE E. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences, *DAVIS, DIANA J.', MAKSELAN, STEPHANIE D.l, AND<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Maine, Orono ME 04469 USA. AFLP-based MONEY, NICHOLAS P.' 'Dept. <strong>of</strong> Chemistry, college <strong>of</strong><br />
population studies <strong>of</strong> Batrachochytn'um, a frog pathogen. Mount St. Joseph, Cincinnati OH 45233 USA, 'Dept. <strong>of</strong><br />
Botany, Miami University, Oxford OH 45056 USA. Protein-<br />
Chytridiomycosis caused by Batrachochytrium<br />
ase secretion by pathogenic oomycetes cannot be predendrobatidis<br />
(Chytridiomycota)has been implicated in diedicted<br />
from host range.<br />
<strong>of</strong>fs <strong>of</strong> amphibians in Australia and Central <strong>America</strong>.<br />
Recently Batrachochytrium has been isolated from captive Oomycetes are used as for<br />
and wild popu~ations <strong>of</strong> amphibians across ~ ~ ~ f ~ i rbiomechanical i ~ ~ aspects . <strong>of</strong> invasive hyphal growth, but little is<br />
In an attempt to determine whether Batrachochytrium has lu-10~" about the tissue-degrading enzymes secreted by these<br />
25
microorganisms. <strong>The</strong> present study is concerned with<br />
proteinase secretion by three species from the genus<br />
Pythium: I? insidiosum is a pathogen <strong>of</strong> humans, horses, and<br />
other mammals, I? graminicola is a specialized pathogen <strong>of</strong><br />
grasses, and I? grandisporangium has been isolated from<br />
marine algae. In culture, collagen induced high levels <strong>of</strong><br />
proteinase secretion in all species, despite striking differ-<br />
ences in the protein content <strong>of</strong> their food sources. Standard<br />
proteinase assays showed that the in vitro activity <strong>of</strong><br />
exogeneous proteinases for I? graminicola in protein-<br />
enriched culture medium was less than half that <strong>of</strong> P:<br />
insidiosum and I? grandisporangium when normalized to<br />
mycelial dry weight. SDS-substrate-PAGE revealed a<br />
common family <strong>of</strong> enzymes in I? insidiosum and I?<br />
graminicola, and all three species secreted a 47 kDa protein-<br />
ase that showed high levels <strong>of</strong> activity. Contrary to expecta-<br />
tions, the proteinase pr<strong>of</strong>iles <strong>of</strong> the three Pythium species did<br />
not correlate with either their natural food sources, or their<br />
phylogenetic affinities. Poster<br />
*DEBELLIS, T. AND WIDDEN, P. Biology Department,<br />
Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.<br />
Ectomycorhhizal community on yellow birch seedling in<br />
selective cuts, based on morphotyping and molecular<br />
methods.<br />
Yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis) seedlings were sampled<br />
from selecitve cuts <strong>of</strong> different size and age in 2 Quebec<br />
deciduous forests. Ectomycorrhizae (ECM)were charactized<br />
using morphotyping and RFLP analysis. Sixteen different<br />
morphotypes were detected, 13 <strong>of</strong> which were found at both<br />
sites. No effects <strong>of</strong> gap size or age on species richness were<br />
found, but, diversity was slightly higher in older gaps. In all<br />
cases a single morphotype was dominant. RFLP analysis <strong>of</strong><br />
88 samples, representing 10 morphotypes yielded 17 RFLP<br />
patterns, 6 <strong>of</strong> which were obtained from the dominant<br />
morphotype. <strong>The</strong>se results show that there was no obvious<br />
impact <strong>of</strong> cutting on the ECM community on the seedlings.<br />
<strong>The</strong>y also emphasise that morphotyping may under-estimate<br />
diversity when compared to molecular methods. Poster<br />
*DE JONG, SHARON N.', LEVESQUE, C. ANDRE;I,<br />
VERKLEY, GERARD J.M.2, ABELN, EDWIN C.A.2,<br />
RAHE, JAMES E.3, AND BRAUN, P. GORDON4. PARC,<br />
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), Summerland,<br />
BC, VOH 1ZO; CBS, Baarn, Netherlands; Dept. Biological<br />
Sciences, SFU, Burnaby, BC, Canada V5A 1S6; AAFC,<br />
32 Main St., Kentville, NS, Canada B4N 1J5. Molecular<br />
phylogeny <strong>of</strong> Ne<strong>of</strong>abraea (Pezicuh) species causing tree<br />
cankers and bull's-eye rot <strong>of</strong> apple.<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
(recently transferred from Pezicula) have generally been<br />
considered N. malicorticis, while in North <strong>America</strong> a species<br />
distinction has been maintained. Phylogenetic analyses <strong>of</strong><br />
Ne<strong>of</strong>abraea isolates were based on DNA sequences <strong>of</strong> the<br />
internal transcribed spacer region <strong>of</strong> nuclear rDNA (39<br />
isolates), the mitochondria1 rDNA small subunit (partial; 52<br />
isolates), the beta-tubulin gene (partial; over 25 isolates), and<br />
a combined data set (over 20 isolates). Our work provides<br />
strong evidence for the existence <strong>of</strong> four distinct Ne<strong>of</strong>abraea<br />
apple pathogens including N. malicorticis, N. perennans, N.<br />
alba, and a putative new Ne<strong>of</strong>abraea species that was<br />
isolated in both Europe and eastern North <strong>America</strong>. Our<br />
results indicate that the primary Ne<strong>of</strong>abraea species causing<br />
tree cankers and bull's-eye rot in North <strong>America</strong> are N.<br />
malicorticis and N. perennans in the west, and N. alba in the<br />
east. N. perennans, N. alba, and the new Ne<strong>of</strong>abraea species<br />
were found in Europe but the presence <strong>of</strong> N. malicorticis was<br />
not confirmed by our limited sampling. Inclusion <strong>of</strong> Rosa<br />
spp. in the host range <strong>of</strong> N. malicorticis is merited. Poster<br />
"DESJARDIN, DENNIS E.I AND HORAK, EGON.2 IDept.<br />
<strong>of</strong> Biology, San Francisco State University, San Francisco,<br />
CA 94132 USA, 2Herbarium ZT, Geobotanical Institute<br />
ETH, Zurich, Switzerland. An update on the Agaricales <strong>of</strong><br />
Indonesia project.<br />
In Jan. 1998 we initiated fieldwork on a five-year project<br />
designed to document the diversity and distribution <strong>of</strong><br />
Agaricales in Indonesia, focusing on the islands <strong>of</strong> Java and<br />
Bali. We have completed three field seasons and collecting<br />
continues year-round conducted by a resident collaborator.<br />
Prior to our investigations, there had been few accounts <strong>of</strong><br />
Indonesian fungal diversity, reported primarily by resident<br />
Dutch or visiting mycologists. To date we have made over<br />
1000 collections, 982 <strong>of</strong> which represent Agaricales sensu<br />
Singer. <strong>The</strong>se specimens belong to 97 genera and represent<br />
conservatively, 428 species. Well over half <strong>of</strong> the specimens<br />
and species belong in the Tricholomataceae (607 specimens,<br />
51 genera, 234 spp.), with the next most speciose group<br />
being the Agaricaceae (32 spp.). In two well-studied groups<br />
(Marasmius and poroid mycenoid genera) approx. one third<br />
<strong>of</strong> the species are new to science. We will present general-<br />
ized data on species composition and abundance, and<br />
specific data on the biogeographic patterns and ecological<br />
specificity <strong>of</strong> several well-studied taxa. Contributed Presen-<br />
tation<br />
DOBRANIC, J.K. AND ZAK, J.C. Ecology Program,<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University,<br />
Lubbock, TX-79409 USA. Linking fungal functional and<br />
taxonomic diversity with litter decomposition.<br />
<strong>The</strong>re has been a long historical debate regarding the<br />
taxonomic status <strong>of</strong> fungal species responsible for anthra- Decomposition is an essential ecological process and it is<br />
cnose canker, perennial canker, and bull's-eye rot <strong>of</strong> apple. In whether fungi by the<br />
mL Europe, both Ne<strong>of</strong>abraea malicorticis and N. perennans number <strong>of</strong> species, functional diversity, or some other
mechanism or combination there<strong>of</strong>. An investigation was<br />
setup to measure functional and taxonomic diversity <strong>of</strong> fungi<br />
on decaying Agave lechuguilla litter over a 2 year period<br />
along a Chihuahuan Desert watershed. Lechuguilla leaves<br />
were air-dried, weighed, tagged, and placed out in 5 vegeta-<br />
tion zones along the watershed in Jun97. Vegetation zones<br />
included a lowland scrub, creosotebush bajada, sot01<br />
grassland, oak forest, and an oak-pine forest. <strong>The</strong> 5 zones<br />
also differed in moisture inputs, soil nitrogen concentration,<br />
and mean annual temperature. Every 6 months, 10 tagged<br />
leaves per zone were collected until Jun99. Functional<br />
diversity was measured by the FungiLog approach and<br />
taxonomic diversity obtained by plating litter particles on a<br />
general medium (MEA) and a xerophilic and xerotolerant<br />
medium (DG18). Decomposition was measured as mass loss.<br />
<strong>The</strong> oak-forest fungi had the greatest functional diversity as<br />
well as the highest amount <strong>of</strong> decomposition over the 2<br />
years. <strong>The</strong> 2 low elevation zones had the lowest functional<br />
diversity. <strong>The</strong>re were no distinct differences in taxonomic<br />
diversity along the watershed. Hence, functional rather than<br />
taxonomic fungal diversity may be a better determinant <strong>of</strong><br />
ecosystem processes. Contributed Presentation<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
*DU, MEIZHU AND VAILLANCOURT, LISA J. Depart-<br />
ment <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology, University <strong>of</strong> Kentucky, S-305<br />
AGSN, Lexington KY 40546 USA. MAT-2 idiomorph-like<br />
sequences in Glomerella species.<br />
<strong>The</strong> plant-pathogenic ascomycete Glomerella is homothallic,<br />
but a majority <strong>of</strong> isolates are self-sterile or have very low<br />
levels <strong>of</strong> fertility, and typically these isolates are cross-fertile<br />
with many other isolates. Our long-term goal is to under-<br />
stand the genes that control self- and cross-fertility in this<br />
genus. Toward this end, we have used the iHMG-boxi<br />
degenerate primers described by Arie et al. (1997, Fungal<br />
Genetics and Biology 21: 11 8- 130) to amplify DNA frag-<br />
ments from several isolates <strong>of</strong> G. cingulata (anamorph<br />
Colletotrichum gloeosporioides) and G. graminicola<br />
(anamorph C. graminicola). <strong>The</strong> amplified sequences have<br />
characteristics <strong>of</strong> the HMG domains <strong>of</strong> ascomycete MAT-2<br />
mating type idiomorphs, including an intron at a conserved<br />
serine codon. Fragments from each species do not cross-<br />
hybridize at high stringency with genomic DNA from other<br />
species <strong>of</strong> Glomerella. Furthermore, fragments amplified<br />
from avocado isolates <strong>of</strong> G. cingulata do not hybridize with<br />
DNA <strong>of</strong> G. cingulata from other hosts. We are exploring the<br />
possibility that these fragments could be used to identify<br />
T.E.* R.W. AND BATALISy N' Dept <strong>of</strong> genetically distinct subpopulations among the morphologi-<br />
Biological Sciences, Butler University, Indianapolis IN<br />
46208 USA. Use <strong>of</strong> isozyme analysis for species identification<br />
and quantification <strong>of</strong> genetic variation in a pond<br />
population <strong>of</strong> Saprolegnia ferax.<br />
cally similar group <strong>of</strong> G. cingulatalC. gloeosporioides fungi.<br />
Work is proceeding to sequence the genomic DNA flanking<br />
these putative MAT-2 fragments, and functional studies are<br />
planned in the longer term. Poster<br />
Information on the ecology <strong>of</strong> freshwater oomycetes is<br />
limited largely to frequency <strong>of</strong> occurrence and relative<br />
abundance <strong>of</strong> representative taxa; few studies have attempted<br />
to describe the genetic structure <strong>of</strong> populations <strong>of</strong> these<br />
organisms. We have developed procedures to isolate,<br />
DUGAN, FRANK M. USDA-ARS Western Regional Plant<br />
Introduction Station, Washington State University, Pullman,<br />
WA, USA. Synanamorphs <strong>of</strong> Selenophoma species in<br />
culture.<br />
identify, and quantify genetic variation in Saprolegnia spp. Strains <strong>of</strong> Selenophoma (Pseudoseptoria) spp. were isolated<br />
from aquatic habitats. It is our experience that the vast from asymptomatic, surface-disinfested seeds andor culms<br />
majority <strong>of</strong> isolates fail to produce sexual reproductive <strong>of</strong> Arrhenatherium, Bromus, Dactylis, Phalaris, and<br />
structures in culture, making species determination problem- Pseudoroegneria species. Strains were grown on malt extract<br />
atic. By using selective medium and comparative isozyme or half strength V8 agar and examined at 100-1000X with<br />
markers from known species we can identify such "sterile" differential interference contrast. Cultures produced<br />
isolates, providing the opportunity to investigate the popula- hyphomycetous synanamorphs commonly exhibiting<br />
tion biology <strong>of</strong> these organisms. We report on the details <strong>of</strong> synchronous conidia production typical for members <strong>of</strong> the<br />
these techniques and their use in an investigation <strong>of</strong> seasonal Aureobasidium-Kabatiella complex. Elongated,<br />
variation in zoospore production and genetic variation in micronematous conidiophores bore intercalary and terminal<br />
Saprolegnia ferax from a small pond in central Indiana. cells with 1-5 conidiogenous loci. Some isolates also<br />
Monthly water samples (6199 - 11/99) yielded a total <strong>of</strong> 124 produced conidiogenous cells in palisades on a stroma, and a<br />
isolates, 113 <strong>of</strong> which were "sterile". All "sterile" isolates minority <strong>of</strong> strains readily produced pycnidia similar to those<br />
shared the same electrotype, which was homozygous at each described from the host. Yeast-like polar budding <strong>of</strong> 1-celled<br />
<strong>of</strong> the six loci studied. Poster conidia, secondary conidia formation from multiple loci on<br />
septate conidia, and catenate conidia were common in most<br />
strains. Several strains produced two distinctive conidial<br />
morphologies: typical selenophomoid and irregularly<br />
venniform. No annellations could be discerned on<br />
conidiogenous loci. Poster<br />
2 7
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
EBBERT, ELAINE AND GABEL, AUDREY. Dept. <strong>of</strong> mRNA in conidia suggests that pheromones from conidia<br />
Biology, Black Hills State University, Spearfish, SD 57799, may enhance fertilization <strong>of</strong> the female. Construction <strong>of</strong> null<br />
A survey <strong>of</strong> macr<strong>of</strong>ungi <strong>of</strong> the Black Hills <strong>of</strong> South mutants <strong>of</strong> the pheromone precursor genes confirms the<br />
Dakota. importance <strong>of</strong> pheromones for fertility <strong>of</strong> the male parent in<br />
sexual crosses. Symposium Presentation<br />
A survey was initiated in 1998, to collect and identify<br />
macr<strong>of</strong>ungi, lichens and plasmodia1 slime molds occurring in<br />
the Black Hills <strong>of</strong> South Dakota. Specimens were collected<br />
four times throughout the summers <strong>of</strong> 1998 and 1999, from<br />
each <strong>of</strong> five permanent sites and less frequently from several<br />
additional sites. Data collected include: site, county, date,<br />
species, major taxonomic group, primary and secondary<br />
vegetation at the site, substrate upon which the fungus was<br />
growing, land use and edibility. Three-hundred and thirteen<br />
specimens were collected and identified in 1998, and 374<br />
specimens were collected and identified in 1999. A total <strong>of</strong><br />
236 different species were collected during the 2-year study<br />
and 38% <strong>of</strong> these were collected only in 1999. Only two<br />
species, Gymnopus dryophilus and Inocybe fastigiata<br />
occurred at all five permanent sites during the study. August<br />
was the best collecting month for both years. Fungi in the<br />
Agaricales were the most frequently collected. A site near<br />
Rochford, South Dakota dominated by Pinus ponderosa and<br />
Picea glauca had the greatest diversity <strong>of</strong> species (45<br />
different species) in 1998. In 1999, Eleventh Hour Spring,<br />
west <strong>of</strong> Spearfish, South Dakota dominated by Populus<br />
tremuloides and Pteridium aquilinum contained the most<br />
diverse number <strong>of</strong> species (52 different species). Poster<br />
"EBBOLE, DANIEL, SHEN, WEI-CHIANG,<br />
BOBROWICZ, PIOTR. Dept. Plant Pathol. & Microbiol.,<br />
Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-2132<br />
USA. Characterization <strong>of</strong> pheromone precursor genes <strong>of</strong><br />
Magnaporthe grisea.<br />
In heterothallic ascomycetes one mating partner serves as a<br />
female and is fertilized by a partner <strong>of</strong> the opposite mating<br />
type. <strong>The</strong> role <strong>of</strong> pheromone signaling in mating is thought<br />
to involve recognition <strong>of</strong> cells <strong>of</strong> the opposite mating type.<br />
Evidence indicates that signaling pathways controlling the<br />
mating response and pathogenic development share some<br />
common elements. To begin to address the relationship <strong>of</strong> the<br />
mating response pathway and the pathway signaling appressorium<br />
formation we have isolated two putative pheromone<br />
precursor genes <strong>of</strong> Magnaporthe grisea. <strong>The</strong> genes are<br />
present in both mating types <strong>of</strong> the fungus but they are<br />
"FISCHER, JENNIFER A., MCCANN, MICHAEL P., AND<br />
SNETSELAAR, KAREN M. Department <strong>of</strong> Biology, St.<br />
Josephs University, Philadelphia PA 19131 USA. A methyla-<br />
tion event is involved in signal transduction during<br />
mating in the plant pathogenic fungus Ustihgo maydis.<br />
Ustilago maydis is a dimorphic fungal pathogen <strong>of</strong> maize. To<br />
infect the host, compatible haploid cells must mate by<br />
forming conjugation tubes which grow along pheromone<br />
gradients and then fuse to form an infection filament.<br />
Methionine auxotrophs <strong>of</strong> U. maydis mate normally when in<br />
direct contact with compatible cells, but cannot induce a<br />
response or form mating tubes when a short distance<br />
separates them from their partners. Normal mating can be<br />
restored by supplying methionine or S-Adenosyl Methionine<br />
(SAM), suggesting a SAM dependent methylation event is<br />
required for mating. Mating tube formation in wild-type cells<br />
is attenuated by the drug ethionine, which inhibits SAM<br />
dependent methylations. Since U. maydis pheromone is<br />
methylated, it was possible that the failure <strong>of</strong> the met- cells<br />
to induce a response was due to their producing<br />
unmethylated pheromone. Unmethylated pheromone is 10 to<br />
100 times less effective in stimulating mating filament<br />
growth than methylated pheromone. However, assays<br />
indicated that the met- cells produce near wild-type levels <strong>of</strong><br />
active pheromone. High concentrations <strong>of</strong> synthetic phero-<br />
mone can induce mating filament formation in nearby met-<br />
cells, and can overcome the inhibition <strong>of</strong> mating in wild-type<br />
cells by ethionine. Together, these data suggest the presence<br />
<strong>of</strong> a SAM-dependent methylation event in a mating signal<br />
transduction pathway in U. maydis. Contributed Presentation<br />
FORCHE, A., XU, J., MITCHELL, T.G. AND "VILGALYS,<br />
R. Duke University Mycology Research Unit, Depts. <strong>of</strong><br />
Biology and Microbiology, DMC Box 3803, Durham, NC<br />
277 10 USA. Development and characterization <strong>of</strong> a<br />
genetic linkage map <strong>of</strong> Cryptococcus ne<strong>of</strong>ormans var.<br />
ne<strong>of</strong>ormans using amplified fragment length polymorphisms<br />
(AFLP) and other markers.<br />
expressed in a mating type-specific manner. <strong>The</strong> MFI - 1 A high-density linkage map was developed for the medical<br />
gene, expressed in Matl-1 strains, is predicted to encode a basidiomycete, Cryptococcus ne<strong>of</strong>ormans var. ne<strong>of</strong>ormans.<br />
26 amino acid polypeptide that is processed to produce a Two parental strains, B3501 and B3502, were crossed, and<br />
lipopeptide pheromone. <strong>The</strong> MF2- 1 gene, expressed in 100 single-spore isolates were obtained for subsequent<br />
Matl-2 strains, is predicted to encode a precursor polypep- analyses. <strong>The</strong> markers included 151 amplified fragment<br />
tide that is processed by a Kex2-like protease to yield a length polymorphisms (AFLP), 10 RAPD markers, and 7<br />
pheromone with striking similarity to the predicted phero- DNA coding loci that were polymorphic between the parents.<br />
mone sequences <strong>of</strong> Neurospora crassa and Cryphonectria<br />
parasitica. Detection <strong>of</strong> putative pheromone precursor gene<br />
Thus, the progeny were screened for a total <strong>of</strong> 166 markers.<br />
Fourteen linkage groups were defined by 106 markers. <strong>The</strong>se<br />
28
linkage groups are consistent with the 13 chromosomes<br />
observed on electrophoretic karyotypes <strong>of</strong> C. ne<strong>of</strong>ormans.<br />
Small linkage groups <strong>of</strong> two or three markers were also<br />
identified, as well as 21 unlinked markers, which need to be<br />
assigned to the major linkage groups. Two linkage groups<br />
with highly distorted markers were also obtained; these<br />
could be the result <strong>of</strong> lethal alleles or epistatic effects.<br />
Ongoing experiments include PFGE and hybridization<br />
analyses to identify the physical location <strong>of</strong> each linkage<br />
group. This genetic map will provide a framework for the<br />
recently initiated genome sequencing project <strong>of</strong> the impor-<br />
tant pathogen. This linkage map should also facilitate studies<br />
<strong>of</strong> the genetics and pathogenicity <strong>of</strong> C. ne<strong>of</strong>ormans. Poster<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
found in other eukaryotic organisms, function in the fungi.<br />
<strong>The</strong>se signal transduction pathways allow the fungi to assess<br />
environmental conditions and to choose between vegetative<br />
growth and entering an asexual developmental program.<br />
Research highlighting the involvement <strong>of</strong> a MAP kinase<br />
signal transduction pathway as a key element in the decision<br />
making process will be presented and discussed. Symposium<br />
Presentation<br />
FRIESEN, TIM L. AND RASMUSSEN, JACK B. Dept. <strong>of</strong><br />
Plant Pathology, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND<br />
58105 USA. Rapid and synchronous production <strong>of</strong><br />
mature ascospores from Pyrenophora tritici-repentis races<br />
1 and 4.<br />
*FOWLER, THOMAS J., MITTON, MICHAEL F., ST. Pyrenophora tritici-repentis is the causal agent <strong>of</strong> tan spot, a<br />
HILAIRE, CYNTHIA, AND RAPER, CARLENE A. foliar disease <strong>of</strong> wheat that causes considerable yield losses<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, worldwide. Five races <strong>of</strong> the fungus are known based on<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Vermont, Burlington VT 05405 USA. Little wheat cultivars affected. <strong>of</strong> these, race 1 is ubiquitous in<br />
changes can make big differences in specificity <strong>of</strong> mating wheat fields <strong>of</strong> the Great Plains. Race 4 is avirulent on wheat<br />
pheromonelreceptor interactions in Schizophyllum and is most prevalent on wild - grasses. This differential<br />
commune.<br />
disease reaction suggests that genetic crosses between races<br />
1 and 4 could help identify genes required for pathogenicity<br />
on wheat. This homothallic fungus readily produces ascospores<br />
in the field, but conditions for making defined<br />
crosses <strong>of</strong> this fungus have not been described. As a first step<br />
toward this goal, we have developed a method for the rapid<br />
production <strong>of</strong> ascospores in vitro. Naturally senescent corn<br />
leaves are autoclaved, placed on water agar, and inoculated<br />
with 20 microliters <strong>of</strong> conidial suspension at 4000 sporeslml.<br />
Cultures are stored in the dark at 21°C until pseudothecia<br />
begin to form. Cultures are then transferred to 16°C with a<br />
12 h photoperiod. <strong>The</strong> first mature ascospores are obtained<br />
approximately 18 to 24 days after inoculation <strong>of</strong> the corn<br />
leaf. Crosses between races 1 and 4 are initiated by inoculating<br />
each side <strong>of</strong> the corn leaf with a different race. Mature<br />
ascospores are obtained from pseudothecia where the races<br />
grow together. Recombinant ascospores are detected with<br />
molecular markers. Poster<br />
<strong>The</strong> Homobasidiomycetous fungus Schizophyllum commune<br />
has thousands <strong>of</strong> mating types defined in part by numerous<br />
lipopeptide pheromones and their G protein-linked receptors.<br />
Compatible combinations <strong>of</strong> pheromones and receptors<br />
produced by individuals <strong>of</strong> different mating type regulate a<br />
pathway <strong>of</strong> sexual development required for establishment<br />
and maintenance <strong>of</strong> the dikaryon. A complex set <strong>of</strong> phero-<br />
monelreceptor interactions maximizes the likelihood <strong>of</strong><br />
outbreeding; for example, a single pheromone can activate<br />
more than one receptor and a single receptor can be activated<br />
by more than one pheromone. <strong>The</strong> haploid individual,<br />
however, is naturally self-sterile because its receptors and<br />
pheromones do not combine to activate the signaling<br />
pathway. S. commune has hundreds <strong>of</strong> different possible<br />
pheromonelreceptor pairs and we estimate half <strong>of</strong> these pairs<br />
activate the downstream signaling pathway. Pheromones and<br />
receptors altered in their spectra <strong>of</strong> interactions are being<br />
investigated. For example, a single conservative amino acid<br />
substitution in one pheromone confers new activity with one<br />
receptor while it abolishes activity with another receptor.<br />
Site-specific mutagenesis is being used to determine how<br />
certain changes <strong>of</strong> one or two amino acid residues in<br />
pheromones or receptors alter the specificity <strong>of</strong> interaction<br />
between these molecules. Symposium Presentation<br />
FREE, STEPHEN. J. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences. Suny at<br />
Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260 USA. Regulation <strong>of</strong> asexual<br />
development in fungi.<br />
Many <strong>of</strong> the filamentous fungi enter into asexual developmental<br />
pathways in response to nutrient deprivation. Recent<br />
genetic studies in yeast and filamentous fungi have demonstrated<br />
that signal transduction pathways, similar to those<br />
2<br />
9<br />
FULLER, MELVLN S. P.O. Box 1449. Damariscotta, ME<br />
04543 USA. <strong>The</strong> chytrids: an historical perspective.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Chytridiomycetes are a large group <strong>of</strong> zoosporic fungi<br />
that are characterized by their posteriorly uniflagellate motile<br />
cells. One order, the Chytridiales that has now been divided<br />
into three orders was commonly referred to as the "chytrids".<br />
From classic descriptions in the late 19th century and on into<br />
the middle <strong>of</strong> the 20th century, several thousand chytrids<br />
were described and much was learned about their distribution<br />
and ecology. This work and the important contributions <strong>of</strong><br />
many people will be reviewed. <strong>The</strong> last quarter <strong>of</strong> the 20th<br />
century saw the chytrids become more than an interesting<br />
phylogenetic group that most mycologists avoided because<br />
they didn't have the patience to hunt them out and grow
them for study. Besides, they were <strong>of</strong> little economic<br />
importance except for a couple <strong>of</strong> minor plant diseases!<br />
Much has changed in the last few years and, while I shall<br />
briefly touch upon these changes, they form the basis <strong>of</strong> the<br />
symposium and the speakers who follow are eminently<br />
qualified to discuss what is happening today. Needless to say<br />
the chytrids are having their day even though they are having<br />
to share it with ruminants and frogs. Symposium Presentation<br />
*GARDES, MONIQUE1, CHARCOSSET, JEAN-YVES1<br />
AND DAHLBERG ANDERS2. lCESAC/CNRS UniversitC<br />
Paul Sabatier/Toulouse III, 29 rue J. Marvig, 31055 Toulouse<br />
Cedex 4, FRANCE, 2Dep <strong>of</strong> Forest Mycology and Pathology,<br />
Swedish University <strong>of</strong> Agricultural Sciences, 750 07<br />
Uppsala, SWEDEN. High species richness and dominance<br />
<strong>of</strong> Cortinarius taxa in belowground communities <strong>of</strong><br />
ectomycorrhizal fungi from the Canadian Arctic.<br />
In 1999, we participated to a a ship based research expedi-<br />
tion to the Canadian arctic archipelago arranged by the Royal<br />
Swedish Academy <strong>of</strong> Sciences. <strong>The</strong> expedition,Tundra<br />
Northwest 1999 (http:Nwww.polar.kva.se), was focused on<br />
the tundra's ecology. Seventeen study sites were selected to<br />
represent a longitudinal and latitudinal gradient <strong>of</strong> the area<br />
and to encompass vegetation within the Low to High Arctic<br />
zones. We collected mycorrhizas from the two most abun-<br />
dant and widely spread ectomycorrhizal plants in the Arctic:<br />
Salix arctica and Dryas integrifolia. PCR-based molecular<br />
methods were used to identify the mycobionts and to provide<br />
an assessment <strong>of</strong> diversity patterns at different spatial scales.<br />
<strong>The</strong> mycobiont species richness was high, approaching that<br />
in boreal forest ecosystems. In total more than 130 taxa were<br />
encountered. Species <strong>of</strong> Cortinarius dominated, comprising<br />
more than 20% <strong>of</strong> the abundance and constituted 4 <strong>of</strong> the 6<br />
most frequently encountered taxa. Salix and Dryas to a large<br />
extent shared the same mycobiont taxa. <strong>The</strong> characteristics<br />
and tentative mechanisms shaping the Arctic<br />
ectomycorrhizal commmunities will be discussed and related<br />
to patterns found in forest ecosystems. Contributed Presenta-<br />
tion<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
mycology classes can fluctuate around the danger zone<br />
unless students are brought in from other fields, even when<br />
mycology is a required course in Plant Pathology. My<br />
approach has been to provide a course covering as many<br />
aspects <strong>of</strong> basic fungal biology as possible, without a heavy<br />
emphasis on plant diseases. <strong>The</strong> hope is that it will meet the<br />
curricular needs <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology students, and at the same<br />
time be attractive to students in other biological sciences,<br />
where few organismal courses are <strong>of</strong>fered and over-enroll-<br />
ment can be a problem. Symposium Presentation<br />
GEISER, DAVID M. Fusarium Research Center, Department<br />
<strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology, Penn State Univ., University Park, PA<br />
16802 USA. Challenges facing the fungal population<br />
geneticist: determining whether asexual fungi are really<br />
asexual.<br />
Whether an organism reproduces sexually or asexually is an<br />
important, basic feature <strong>of</strong> its population biology, yet in most<br />
fungi it is a difficult question to address. In recent years, new<br />
molecular and analytical tools have emerged that help<br />
mycologists address this question. Straightforward and<br />
reliable methods for characterizing multiple, independent<br />
loci in fungal genomes are now available. Analytical and<br />
simulation methods for identifying the genetic signature <strong>of</strong><br />
recombination, a lack <strong>of</strong> association among loci, have also<br />
been employed. Analytical methods include classic measures<br />
<strong>of</strong> linkage disequilibrium, and Maynard Smithis Index <strong>of</strong><br />
Association. Simulation methods include cladistic methods<br />
such as tree permutation tests and the Partition Homogeneity<br />
Test. Still, a number <strong>of</strong> factors rear their ugly heads that<br />
obfuscate our inferences about reproductive mode: i. In fungi<br />
it is <strong>of</strong>ten difficult to determine the boundaries <strong>of</strong> species,<br />
populations, and even individuals; ii. Finding evidence for<br />
sex can be easy, but mixed reproductive modes make<br />
determining its frequency and significance difficult; and iii.<br />
One has to distinguish the effects <strong>of</strong> recombination on the<br />
fungal genome from other factors that might produce the<br />
same signature. I will discuss how we might deal with these<br />
problems in the future. Symposium Presentation<br />
GEISER, DAVID M. Fusarium Research Center, Department GLASS, N. LOUISE. Plant and Microbial Biology Depart<strong>of</strong><br />
Plant Pathology, Penn State Univ., University Park, PA ment, University <strong>of</strong> California-Berkeley. A molecular<br />
16802 USA. <strong>The</strong> challenges (and benefits) or teaching examination <strong>of</strong> vegetative incompatibility.<br />
mycology in a Plant Pathology department. Vegetative incompatibility is a ubiquitous phenomenon in<br />
Fungi are the most important group <strong>of</strong> plant pathogenic both basidiomycetes and ascomycetes and is believed to<br />
organisms, and a strong background in fungal biology is a function as a nonself recognition System to restrict the<br />
core component <strong>of</strong> a Plant Pathology education. It follows transfer <strong>of</strong> m~coviruses and debilitated organelles. In an<br />
that Plant Pathology will be a safe harbor for mycology effort to examine the role <strong>of</strong> vegetative incompatibility and<br />
instruction in the future. However, while Plant Pathology to dissect the mechanism <strong>of</strong> growth inhibition and hyphal<br />
departments have maintained mycology instruction in their compartmentation and death, we have chosen to use the<br />
curricula, the need for organismal courses is getting less experimentally tractable ascomycete, Neurospora crassa. In<br />
recognition in other biological sciences. Because Plant N. crassa, hyphal anastomosis between strains that contain<br />
Pathology student numbers tend to be small, enrollment in single genetic differences at any <strong>of</strong> eleven bet loci triggers<br />
30
vegetative incompatibility. We have cloned and characterized<br />
three het loci <strong>of</strong> N. crassa, the mating type locus (mat), het-c<br />
and het-6. <strong>The</strong> products <strong>of</strong> the different het loci encode very<br />
different gene products, although the ultrastructural details<br />
associated with hyphal compartmentation and death are<br />
remarkably similar. In the het-c system, individuals within a<br />
population fall into three allelic groups with regard to het-c<br />
specificity. Phylogenetic analysis <strong>of</strong> het-c alleles in related<br />
species and genera to N. crassa indicated that the het-c locus<br />
is under balancing selection, which is consistent with its role<br />
in mediating nonself recognition. We are now in a position to<br />
understand the molecular mechanism <strong>of</strong> nonself recognition<br />
and how recognition triggers hyphal compartmentation and<br />
death. Symposium Presentation<br />
*GLENN, ANTHONY E.' AND BACON, CHARLES W.2<br />
'Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology, University <strong>of</strong> Georgia, Athens, GA<br />
30602 USA, 2USDA, ARS, Russell Research Center, Athens,<br />
GA 30604. Antifungal strategies <strong>of</strong> corn are not effective<br />
deterrents to infection or endophytic colonization by<br />
Gibberella fujikuroi.<br />
<strong>The</strong> chemical defense mechanism <strong>of</strong> corn involving the<br />
preformed antimicrobial cyclic hydroxamic acids, DIMBOA<br />
and DIBOA, is not effective against Gibberella fujikuroi<br />
mating population A (MP-A; Fusarium monilijorme, syn. E<br />
verticillioides) since intercellular hyphae continue to invade<br />
host tissue well beyond the early stage <strong>of</strong> infection. Such<br />
infections result in either seedling disease or symptomless<br />
endophytic colonization <strong>of</strong> the plant. While these compounds<br />
have wide-ranging antimicrobial activity, MP-A is very<br />
tolerant because <strong>of</strong> its ability to detoxify the cyclic<br />
hydroxamic acids. However, one strain was discovered to be<br />
sensitive to these compounds and forms the basis for our<br />
report on the genetic and physiological analyses <strong>of</strong> the<br />
detoxification process. Genetic analyses assessing segrega-<br />
tion <strong>of</strong> tolerant and sensitive progeny indicated that two loci,<br />
Fdbl and Fdb2, are involved in detoxification. In vitro<br />
physiological complementation assays resulted in detoxifica-<br />
tion <strong>of</strong> the related antimicrobial BOA and have suggested an<br />
unidentified intermediate compound is produced. Cloning <strong>of</strong><br />
Fdbl+ by genetic complementation is underway. Cloning<br />
and targeted disruption <strong>of</strong> the native Fdbl+ allele in a<br />
detoxifying strain <strong>of</strong> MP-A will allow for stringent testing <strong>of</strong><br />
hypotheses regarding the impact <strong>of</strong> antimicrobial detoxifica-<br />
tion on fungal virulence andlor fitness for endophytic<br />
growth. Contributed Presentation<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
saprolegnian family, the Ectrogellaceae. It produces simple<br />
refractive capsule-shaped thalli which develop tubular or<br />
dome shaped exit tubes. <strong>The</strong> unique feature <strong>of</strong> the genus is<br />
the production <strong>of</strong> infective gun cells, which instantaneously<br />
fire sporidia into their hosts. <strong>The</strong> similarity in the mode <strong>of</strong><br />
action <strong>of</strong> these cells to that seen in the plant pathogen<br />
Plasmodiophora brassicae and the fact that both their<br />
flagella were smooth, led us initially to conclude that this<br />
group might be more closely related to the protistan<br />
Plasmodiophoromycetes than to the chromistan Oomycetes.<br />
However, ultrastructural details <strong>of</strong> the thallus cytoplasm<br />
(mitochondria1 cristae, dense-body & encystment vesicles)<br />
and zoospore flagellar rootlets (striate fibre and octuplet<br />
rootlet) now seem to confirm the chromistan affiliations <strong>of</strong><br />
this group. However, there are sufficient unique features (gun<br />
cell structure, life history, flagellum morphology) <strong>of</strong> this<br />
group to suggest this group ought to be placed in a Class <strong>of</strong><br />
their own. We are actively engaged in trying to sequence the<br />
small ribosomal subunit - which may enable us to conclu-<br />
sively place this organism in the 'Tree <strong>of</strong> Life'. Poster<br />
GOLD, SCOTT E., MAYORGA, MARIA E., ANDREWS,<br />
DAVID L., AND EGAN, JOHN D. Department <strong>of</strong> Plant<br />
Pathology, University <strong>of</strong> Georgia, Athens, GA 30602-7274<br />
USA. <strong>The</strong> ubc genes <strong>of</strong> Ustihgo maydis encode members<br />
<strong>of</strong> the cAMP and pheromone responsive MAP kinase<br />
pathways.<br />
Ustilago maydis, the causal agent <strong>of</strong> corn smut disease,<br />
displays dimorphic growth in which it alternates between a<br />
budding haploid saprophyte and a filamentous dikaryotic<br />
pathogen. We have identified a role for the cAMP signal<br />
transduction pathway in the dimorphic switch <strong>of</strong> this fungus.<br />
Haploid strains mutant in the uacl gene encoding adenylate<br />
cyclase are filamentous. Mutagenesis <strong>of</strong> the uacl disruption<br />
strain allowed the isolation <strong>of</strong> a large number <strong>of</strong> budding<br />
suppressor mutants named ubc, for Ustilago bypass <strong>of</strong><br />
- cyclase because they no longer require cAMP for budding<br />
growth. Analysis <strong>of</strong> these suppressor mutants led to the<br />
identification <strong>of</strong> 4 additional genes that are required for<br />
filamentous growth. Three <strong>of</strong> these genes, ubc3, ubc4 and<br />
ubc5 encode members <strong>of</strong> a MAP kinase cascade with highest<br />
similarity to those <strong>of</strong> the yeast pheromone response pathway.<br />
<strong>The</strong>ubc2 gene, when mutated, produces a similar phenotype<br />
to the ubc3 through ubc.5 mutants and it interacts genetically<br />
with ubc4. We describe the roles <strong>of</strong> the ubc genes in mating<br />
and in pathogenicity. Symposium Presentation<br />
GLOCKLING, SALLY L. AND BEAKES, GORDON W. *GONZALEZ, MARIA C., HANLIN, RICHARD T. AND<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biological & Nutritional Sciences, Newcastle ULLOA, MIGUEL. Dept. Botanica,Instituto de Biologia,<br />
University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NEl 7RU, UK. A class UNAM, CP 70-233, Mexico DF 045 10 Mexico. Marine<br />
Act? <strong>The</strong> zoosporic nematophagous pathogen Fungi from Mexico.<br />
Haptoglossa. <strong>The</strong> marine fungal biota <strong>of</strong> Mexico remains unknown for the<br />
<strong>The</strong> holocarpic nematode and rotifer parasite Haptoglossa is most part. <strong>The</strong> first collections <strong>of</strong> Mexican marine fungi<br />
an aplanosporic or zoosporic genus originally placed in the were made by Kohlmeyer 32 years ago and more data for the<br />
31
country have accumulated in the following years. Recently<br />
the first author made new collections from 18 Mexican<br />
beaches. Comparison <strong>of</strong> these data with the published<br />
literature was difficult due to the lack <strong>of</strong> an available<br />
compilation <strong>of</strong> the marine fungi <strong>of</strong> Mexico. In this work, the<br />
records from the literature have been merged with the new<br />
collections into a checklist <strong>of</strong> the marine fungi reported from<br />
Mexico. A total <strong>of</strong> 65 species are recorded from 44 localities.<br />
<strong>The</strong> most diverse group is the ascomycetes (49 spp.),<br />
followed by the mitosporic fungi (15 spp.) and one basidi-<br />
omycete. <strong>The</strong> seacoast <strong>of</strong> Quintana Roo on the Caribbean<br />
Sea is the most studied in the country, whereas the Pacific<br />
Coast is the least studied. <strong>The</strong> most frequently encountered<br />
ascomycetes are Corollospora maritima and Lindra<br />
thalassiae,and Varicosporina ramulosa is the most common<br />
mitosporic fungus. In general, the species composition <strong>of</strong> the<br />
marine fungal biota <strong>of</strong> Mexico is similar to that reported for<br />
other tropical beaches. Given the large amount <strong>of</strong> coastline in<br />
Mexico on both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, many<br />
additional studies are needed to fully understand the<br />
mycodiversity <strong>of</strong> the country. Poster<br />
GRAND, L.F. AND VERNIA, C.S. Dept. Plant Pathology,<br />
Box 7616, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC<br />
27695-7616 USA (lanygrand@ncsu.edu). Distribution <strong>of</strong><br />
poroid wood-decay fungi in North Carolina.<br />
An intensive sampling study was initiated in 1996 in a<br />
Piedmont forest stand to determine the poroid wood-decay<br />
fungi on woody vegetation blown down by Hurricane Fran<br />
(September 1996). This continuing study was expanded to<br />
develop an inventory and distribution maps <strong>of</strong> wood-decay<br />
fungi for North Carolina with an emphasis on poroid species.<br />
Data for the inventory and distribution <strong>of</strong> species was<br />
derived from collections in the <strong>Mycological</strong> Herbarium,<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University,<br />
observational records by the authors and published records.<br />
To date approximately 175 taxa have been identified. Species<br />
<strong>of</strong> six genera <strong>of</strong> poroid fungi are initially presented:<br />
Ganodemza (G. applanatum, G. lucidum, G. tsugae),<br />
Lenzites (L. betulina), Phellinus (19 gilvus, I? laevigatus, f!<br />
pini), Schizopora paradoxa, Trametes (T. conchifer; i?<br />
elegans, T. hirsutus, Z pubescens, T. versicolor) and<br />
Trichaptum (T. abietinum, i? biforme, 'I: sector). Distribution<br />
maps <strong>of</strong> these and other species for North Carolina will be<br />
updated annually. Poster.<br />
"GREENE, DOUGLAS1, LAGRECA, SCOTT1, AND<br />
LUMBSCH, H. THORSTEN2. IFarlow Herbarium, Harvard<br />
University, 20 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138<br />
USA. 2Botanisches Institut, Universitat Essen, 451 17 Essen,<br />
Germany. Systematic Studies <strong>of</strong> the Lecanora symmicta<br />
complex in New England and Adjacent Canada.<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
<strong>The</strong> Lecanora symmicta complex is poorly known in North<br />
<strong>America</strong>. Various European names have been applied, but the<br />
North <strong>America</strong>n species may not match European concepts.<br />
In an effort to clarify the taxonomy <strong>of</strong> these lichens in New<br />
England and adjacent Canada, chemical (TLC and HPLC)<br />
and morphological examinations were conducted using both<br />
herbarium specimens and samples collected in the field. <strong>The</strong><br />
examined material can be sorted into two groups. <strong>The</strong> first<br />
group, which includes the majority <strong>of</strong> specimens examined,<br />
has only usnic acid and zeorin. In addition, its apothecia<br />
have non-thalline margins. Some <strong>of</strong> these specimens also<br />
possess various minor unknown substances, some <strong>of</strong> which<br />
may be apothecial pigments. <strong>The</strong> second major group has<br />
usnic acid and zeorin as well, but it also consistently pro-<br />
duces one major unknown compound. Additionally, the<br />
specimens in this second group possess apothecia with a<br />
distinctly thalline margin. A subgroup <strong>of</strong> the second group<br />
possesses a second major unknown compound. Species<br />
delimitations are based on anatomical examinations and<br />
comparisons with European type material. Contributed<br />
Presentation<br />
*GRUBISHA, LISA C., CAMACHO, FRANCISCO J.,<br />
AND BRUNS, TOM D. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant and Microbial<br />
Biology, University <strong>of</strong> California, Berkeley, 94720 USA.<br />
Comparison <strong>of</strong> genet size between two ectomycorrhizal<br />
fungi from the southern Sierra Nevada: Gautieria<br />
monticola and Suillus (Gastrosuillus) suilloides.<br />
Gautieria monticola and Suillus (Gastrosuillus) suilloides<br />
are ectomycorrhizal fungi that occur in mixed conifer stands<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Sierra National Forest. Gautieria monticola is a mat<br />
former that is commonly found in stands dominated by white<br />
fir, Suillus suilloides is found in stands dominated by pines.<br />
Our knowledge <strong>of</strong> the population biology <strong>of</strong> these species is<br />
nonexistent. To gain a better understanding <strong>of</strong> the biology <strong>of</strong><br />
these species, we are investigating genet size at six sites<br />
(three for each species) in this forest. Fruitbodies were<br />
mapped and collected. Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism~<br />
(AFLP) were used to generate fingerprints for each<br />
collection. We are screening multiple primer pairs, but<br />
preliminary data from two primer pairs suggests that the two<br />
species have different population structures. Gautieria<br />
monticola forms several small genets <strong>of</strong>ten with several<br />
clustered fruitbodies, whereas Suillus suilloides has fewer<br />
but larger genets, the largest being over eight meters. <strong>The</strong>se<br />
findings are not unexpected. <strong>The</strong> small size <strong>of</strong> Gautieria<br />
genets corresponds to previous reports <strong>of</strong> small Gautieria<br />
mats found in young Douglas-fir stands, while the size <strong>of</strong><br />
Suillus genets are within the range seen in other Suillus<br />
species. Contributed Presentation
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
GUEVARA, R., RAYNER, A. D. M. & REYNOLDS, S. E. method supported similar levels <strong>of</strong> accuracy and precision in<br />
Instituto de Ecologia, A. C. , AP 63, CP 91000 Xalapa, Ver. the quantification <strong>of</strong> M.echinata conidia to those obtained<br />
MEXICO. <strong>The</strong> role <strong>of</strong> odour compounds and host ageing previously for S. chartarum using the longer method.<br />
in the partitioning <strong>of</strong> the fungus Coriolus versicolor by Ninety-five percent occurrence ranges <strong>of</strong> these quantitative<br />
two ciid beetles. estimates were within 50 to 200% <strong>of</strong> actual cell numbers in<br />
<strong>The</strong> ciid beetles Octotemnus glabriculus and Cis boleti water samples and 20 to 65 % in dust samples over a range<br />
exploit different developmental stages <strong>of</strong> fruit bodies <strong>of</strong> their from 25 looo per Poster<br />
preferred fungus Coriolus versicolor. Larvae <strong>of</strong> the smaller<br />
beetle, 0. glabriculus, mainly use young, expanding, fruit<br />
bodies; adults <strong>of</strong> 0. glabriculus are predominantly found in<br />
young fruit bodies. By contrast, adults and larvae <strong>of</strong> the<br />
larger - beetle, C. boleti, are prevalent in fully developed fruit<br />
bodies <strong>of</strong> C. versicolor. Because fruit bodies <strong>of</strong> most genets<br />
"HALLEN, HEATHER E., ADAMS, GERARD C. Department<br />
<strong>of</strong> Botany and Plant Pathology, Michigan State<br />
University, East Lansing, MI 48824-1312 USA. Taxonomy<br />
and toxicity in Conocybe lactea and related species.<br />
Conoc~be lactea (Lange) Metrod has been t~amined as Part<br />
emerge during spring and early summer and mature by <strong>of</strong> a wider study on fungi producing amatoxins. While<br />
autumn, 0. glabriculus and C. boleti breed in separated amatoxins have not been confirmed in C. lactea, the related<br />
seasons. Adults and larvae <strong>of</strong> 0. glabriculus are abundant in phallotoxins are consistantly present in small quantities. This<br />
spring and early summer. By contrast, the number <strong>of</strong> adults is the first report <strong>of</strong> phallotoxins outside <strong>of</strong> the genus<br />
and larvae <strong>of</strong> C. boleti increases gradually from late spring to Amanita. Gastrocybe lateritia Watling, which occurs in the<br />
summer and peaks in autumn. A field experiment suggests same habitat as C. lactea and shares many characteristics,<br />
that the phenological dynamics <strong>of</strong> C. versicolor fruit bodies does not contain toxins. DNA sequence data place G.<br />
drive the separation <strong>of</strong> breeding seasons between 0. lateritia in the genus Conocybe, closely related to, but not<br />
glabriculus and C. boleti. Additionally, laboratory experi- identical with, C. lactea and C. rickenelli. <strong>The</strong> amatoxinments<br />
revealed that 0. glabriculus and C. boleti have containing species C. filaris is more distantly related. <strong>The</strong><br />
differential behavioural responses to odour compounds from taxonomic position <strong>of</strong> other presumed close relatives <strong>of</strong> C.<br />
young and mature fruit bodies <strong>of</strong> C. versicolor. We conclude lactea and G. lateritia is discussed. Contributed Presentation<br />
that age-related changes in the chemical composition <strong>of</strong> fruit<br />
bodies may allow 0. glabriculus and C. boleti to discriminate<br />
among C. versicolor, thus providing a mechanism for the<br />
partitioning <strong>of</strong> the resource. Poster<br />
*HAMBLETON, SARAH AND SHOEMAKER, ROBERT<br />
A. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Ottawa, Ontario KIA<br />
OC6 Canada. Molecular systematics <strong>of</strong> Pyrenophora and<br />
related anamorph species in Drechslera.<br />
*HAUGLAND, RICHARD A., VESPER, STEPHEN J.,<br />
WYMER, LARRY J. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,<br />
National Exposure Research Laboratory, Cincinnati, Ohio. A<br />
rapid method for the extraction <strong>of</strong> fungal DNA from<br />
environmental samples: evaluation in the quantitative<br />
analysis <strong>of</strong> Memnoniellu echinata conidia using real time<br />
detection <strong>of</strong> PCR products.<br />
Species concepts in the genus Pyrenophora are based<br />
substantially on anamorph characteristics, host association,<br />
symptom expression and growth habits in pure culture.<br />
Recent published evidence from mating studies and molecular<br />
analysis <strong>of</strong> several species pathogenic on barley suggest<br />
that they may be conspecific in spite <strong>of</strong> distinctive conidial<br />
characters and symptomatic differences on the host plant.<br />
However, evidence from an Australian strain <strong>of</strong> the recently<br />
New technologies may soon allow routine microbial analyses described pyrenophora hordei is suspect because the original<br />
<strong>of</strong> environmental samples to be performed by nucleic acid illustrations <strong>of</strong> the teleomorph show that the fungus is Lewia<br />
sequence detection- We have the infectoria. <strong>The</strong> molecular studies may have been based on a<br />
ment <strong>of</strong> a method for the quantitative detection <strong>of</strong> Drechslera incorrectly ascribed as the anamorph <strong>of</strong>f! hordei.<br />
Stachybotrys chartarum conidia in air and indoor dust New information is presented from the analysis <strong>of</strong> ITS<br />
samples using the TaqMan, fluorigenic assay. This system sequence data for multiple strains <strong>of</strong> 15 species <strong>of</strong><br />
up to 96 to be performed in two Pyrenophora and the associated anamorph genus Drechslera.<br />
hours and has lead us to search for faster methods for Comparisons <strong>of</strong> the ITS1 sequence data reveal the presence<br />
preparing DNA. We describe a <strong>of</strong> species-specific sequence motifs, 40 to 60 base pairs in<br />
our previous DNA extraction method that reduces the overall length, that could not be aligned across species with confi-<br />
processing time <strong>The</strong> new dence. Phylogenetic analysis suggests a strong correlation<br />
uses glass bead the cOnidia and a between host association and species relationships. Isolates<br />
silica-gel membrane and system for DNA purifica- <strong>of</strong>f! chaetomioides and I? avenae from oats cluster together<br />
tion. A new TaqMan primer and probe set for the with high support, in accord with the previous assessment<br />
detection <strong>of</strong> the toxigenic fungal species, Memnoniella based on morphological criteria that they represent one<br />
echinata is also described. DNA extractions by the new species. Poster<br />
33
HARMAN, G. E. Cornell University, Geneva, NY 14456<br />
USA. Uses <strong>of</strong> Trichoderma spp., opportunistic plant<br />
symbionts and biocontrol agents.<br />
Trichoderma spp. can both control nearly all plant patho-<br />
genic fungi and also improve crop growth and productivity,<br />
especially under stressful conditions. <strong>The</strong>se diverse fungi<br />
have many mechanisms <strong>of</strong> action and must contain literally<br />
hundreds <strong>of</strong> genes with function either in biocontrol or plant<br />
growth promotion. A few strains <strong>of</strong> these fungi are used<br />
commercially now, but, like nearly all biocontrol products,<br />
their success has been limited. However, recently-discovered<br />
new uses <strong>of</strong> Trichodem spp., such as increases in nitrogen<br />
fertilizer use efficiency, may permit much greater success in<br />
the near future. Success requires an excellent strain, approval<br />
by federal regulators, a cost-effective, highly reliable<br />
production system, hundreds to thousands <strong>of</strong> successful trials<br />
and effective marketing. Most <strong>of</strong> these requirements can only<br />
be met in the commercial arena, especially since public<br />
funding for most research designed to implement basic<br />
discoveries in agriculture is extremely meager.mplement<br />
basic discoveries in agriculture is extremely meager. Sympo-<br />
sium Presentation<br />
HAWKINS, LAURAINE. Penn State Mont Alto, Mont Alto,<br />
PA 17237 USA. How well do we translate from sample to<br />
community?<br />
<strong>The</strong> relationship between sampling procedures and character-<br />
ization <strong>of</strong> communities is a concern across many disciplines<br />
<strong>of</strong> biology. Samples <strong>of</strong> substrates may be limited in physical<br />
size or restricted due to concerns about negative impacts <strong>of</strong><br />
sampling procedures on the system under study. Investigator<br />
time, materials, and effort spent in the field gathering<br />
samples and in the lab processing samples inevitably are<br />
limited. Concerns about the efficiency <strong>of</strong> the translation<br />
process are especially relevant to mycologists working with<br />
microscopic organisms that must be cultured. In this poster I<br />
will report on a study examining how choices <strong>of</strong> methods for<br />
culture and statistical handling <strong>of</strong> data affect the information<br />
gained from soil samples about the micr<strong>of</strong>ungal communities<br />
in that soil. Poster<br />
HEMMES, DON E.' AND DESJARDIN, DENNIS E.'.<br />
'University <strong>of</strong> Hawaii at Hilo, Biology Dept., Hilo, HI 96720<br />
USA, 2Biology Department, San Francisco State University,<br />
San Francisco, CA 94132 USA. Geastroid Fungi <strong>of</strong><br />
Hawaii: An Update.<br />
During our studies <strong>of</strong> the Agaricales <strong>of</strong> the Hawaiian Islands<br />
over the past few years we have encountered a variety <strong>of</strong><br />
gasteromycetes including a number <strong>of</strong> earthstars which gives<br />
us a better understanding <strong>of</strong> their distribution in the various<br />
vegetation zones <strong>of</strong> the islands. Some species are new<br />
records for Hawaii. Geastrum fornicatum, G. campestre, G.<br />
corallinum, G. saccatum, G. xerophilum, G. minimum, along<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
3 4<br />
with Myriostoma coliforme, are prevalent in the arid,<br />
subalpine regions <strong>of</strong> Mauna Kea within the mamane-naio<br />
forests. Geastrum pectinatum, G. fimbriatium, and G.<br />
berkeleyi are found along the windward coastlines <strong>of</strong> the<br />
islands dominated by "ironwoods", Casuarina equisetifolia.<br />
A large, relatively fleshy species, the most common in this<br />
Casuarina habitat, appears to represent an undescribed<br />
species. Geastrum velutinum and G, aff. morganii are found<br />
in mixed ohia-koa forests at the 1000-1500 meter elevations.<br />
<strong>The</strong> known species <strong>of</strong> Hawaiian geastroid fungi will be<br />
pictured and their distribution on the various islands will be<br />
illustrated. Poster<br />
*HENN, MATTHEW R. AND CHAPELA, IGNACIO H.<br />
University <strong>of</strong> California, Berkeley, Ecosystem Sciences<br />
Division, Dept. <strong>of</strong> Environmental Science, Policy, &<br />
Management, Berkeley, CA 94720 USA. Stable isotopes at<br />
fungal interfaces: determinants <strong>of</strong> isotopic discrimina-<br />
tion.<br />
Stable isotope analysis represents a major tool in ecosystem<br />
studies, but many <strong>of</strong> its assumptions remain unexplored<br />
especially when microbes effect transfers across trophic-<br />
levels. Differences in stable isotopic compositions for carbon<br />
(C) and nitrogen (N) between various fungi and their<br />
substrates both in situ and in vitro were determined to<br />
establish their relative roles in isotopic distribution during<br />
nutrient cycling. Fungal biomass was enriched for the<br />
heavier isotope relative to its respective substrate for C and<br />
either enriched or depleted for N in both field and culture<br />
measurements. Culture results indicate taxon-specific<br />
discriminations for C and N. In the field, mean C and N<br />
isotope patterns distinguished between mycorrhizal and<br />
saprophytic fungi. <strong>The</strong> sensitivity <strong>of</strong> culture studies to C3-<br />
and C4- derived C sources provides insight into biocherni-<br />
cally controlled C processing and indicates that isotopic<br />
discrimination occurs during sugar uptake and is sensitive to<br />
the non-random distribution <strong>of</strong> the heavy isotope in the<br />
sucrose molecule. <strong>The</strong> balance between respiratory and<br />
fermentative physiology modulates the degree <strong>of</strong> fraction-<br />
ation. <strong>The</strong>se discoveries provide the basis for a re-evaluation<br />
<strong>of</strong> ecosystem models based on isotopic evidence that involve<br />
the transfer <strong>of</strong> C and N across microbial boundaries. Contrib-<br />
uted Presentation<br />
HERNANDEZ, JOSE R. Fac. Agronomia y Zootecnia,<br />
Universidad Nacional de Tucuman, Tucuman, Argentina.<br />
<strong>The</strong> genus Ravenelia (Uredinales) in Argentina.<br />
Ravenelia is a large genus with many species in tropical and<br />
subtropical areas <strong>of</strong> <strong>America</strong> (Neotropica), Africa, and Asia.<br />
<strong>The</strong>y are obligate parasites on species <strong>of</strong> the Fabaceae,<br />
suggesting a common origin and coevolution in the genus.<br />
This study <strong>of</strong> the systematics <strong>of</strong> Ravenelia in Argentina was<br />
undertaken because there are many members <strong>of</strong> the Fabaceae<br />
in the arid regions <strong>of</strong> Argentina and species <strong>of</strong> Ravenelia are
frequently encountered. <strong>The</strong> ecology <strong>of</strong> the legumes as well<br />
as the species composition <strong>of</strong> Ravenelia and the types <strong>of</strong><br />
symptoms produced are different and distinctive in the<br />
subtropical and higher latitudes <strong>of</strong> South <strong>America</strong>, as<br />
compared to the tropics. Fifteen species <strong>of</strong> Ravenelia have<br />
been recorded in Argentina on Acacia, Anadenanthera,<br />
Erythrina, Indigifera, Lonchocarpus, Mimosa,<br />
Pithecellobium, Prosopis, and Senna. Four additional species<br />
have been collected and the life cycles <strong>of</strong> several taxa have<br />
been clarified. This study will result in a comprehensive<br />
taxonomic and nomenclatural revision <strong>of</strong> Ravenelia in<br />
Argentina. Examples <strong>of</strong> species <strong>of</strong> Ravenelia collected in<br />
Argentina, their spore types, and the distinctive symptoms<br />
that they cause will be presented. Poster<br />
*HERR, JOSHUA R.I, AGBLEVOR, FOSTER Fm2, AND<br />
VAUGHN, LARRY J.3. Department <strong>of</strong> Biology, Virginia<br />
Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA, Department <strong>of</strong> Biological<br />
Systems Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg VA<br />
24061 USA, Office <strong>of</strong> International Research and Development,<br />
Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA. Characterization<br />
<strong>of</strong> spore growth, oxygen demand and growth<br />
media consumption <strong>of</strong> Metarhizium anisopliae var.<br />
acridum during liquid fermentation.<br />
Species <strong>of</strong> Metarhizium, as well as other entomopathogenic<br />
fungi, are being investigated for use as biocontrol agents<br />
against agricultural pests. Growth <strong>of</strong> spores in submerged<br />
culture has been touted over aerial spore production due to<br />
various constraints, namely safety and economic consider-<br />
ations. <strong>The</strong> growth <strong>of</strong> Metarhizium anisopliae var. acridum<br />
was conducted in a small-scale submerged fermentation<br />
system and various parameters for optimal growth were<br />
established over the course <strong>of</strong> several runs. <strong>The</strong> oxygen<br />
demand, the consumption <strong>of</strong> growth media, and the subse-<br />
quent amount <strong>of</strong> spore production was determined during<br />
growth periods. Changes in pH during fermentation were<br />
also noted. Optimal conditions for growing this fungus in<br />
culture will be discussed. Contributed Presentation<br />
"HERRERA, JOSE, WALTERS, LAURA L., AND FREE-<br />
MAN, GFUFFITH, R. Division <strong>of</strong> Science, Truman State<br />
University, Kirksville, MO 63501 USA. Aflatoxin con-<br />
sumption by the food storing rodent, Dipodomys<br />
spectabilis.<br />
Many food-storing rodents are exposed to dangerous<br />
amounts <strong>of</strong> mycotoxin-producing fungal species. For<br />
example, banner-tailed kangaroo rats (Dipodomys<br />
spectabilis) store seed <strong>of</strong>ten infected with Aspergillusflavus,<br />
a fungal species responsible for producing a potent myc-<br />
otoxin (aflatoxin). In laboratory trials, however, wild-caught<br />
kangaroo rats appeared unaffected by consuming aflatoxin-<br />
laced apples. Using a modified Ames test (a microbial<br />
mutagen assay) and HPLC, we gathered results that suggest<br />
D. spectabilis' livers lack the enzymes required to break<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
aflatoxin into its cytotoxic and mutagenic metabolites. <strong>The</strong><br />
results indicate D. spectabilis have adapted to the presence <strong>of</strong><br />
aflatoxin (and perhaps other mycotoxins) in their food stores.<br />
In addition, because mycotoxins may prevent other verte-<br />
brate food thieves from consuming large amounts <strong>of</strong> the food<br />
store, we are testing whether D. spectabilis actually may<br />
benefit from harboring mycotoxins they can tolerably eat in<br />
their stored food items. Contributed Presentation<br />
*HTBBETT, DAVID S.', GILBERT, LUZ-BEATFU2, AND<br />
DONOGHUE, MICHAEL J.2 lBiology Department, Clark<br />
University, Worcester, MA 01610 USA, 2Harvard University<br />
Herbaria, 22 Divinity Ave., Cambridge, MA 02138 USA.<br />
Evolution <strong>of</strong> ectomycorrhizal symbioses in<br />
homobasidiomycetes.<br />
Ectomycorrhizae are classic examples <strong>of</strong> mutualisms. Early<br />
views on the evolution <strong>of</strong> symbioses suggested that all long-<br />
term, intimate associations tend to evolve toward mutualism.<br />
Following this principle, it has been suggested that mycor-<br />
rhizal symbioses are the stable derivatives <strong>of</strong> ancestral<br />
antagonistic interactions involving plant parasitic fungi. In<br />
contrast, recent theoretical and empirical studies promote a<br />
view <strong>of</strong> mutualisms as inherently unstable reciprocal<br />
parasitisms, which can be disrupted by conflicts <strong>of</strong> interest<br />
among the partners. To determine the number <strong>of</strong> origins <strong>of</strong><br />
mycorrhizae, and to assess their evolutionary stability, we<br />
performed a broad phylogenetic analysis <strong>of</strong> mycorrhizal and<br />
free-living homobasidiomycetes. Estimates <strong>of</strong> ancestral<br />
states were performed using parsimony and maximum<br />
likelihood. In addition, we used maximum likelihood to<br />
evaluate possible models <strong>of</strong> evolution <strong>of</strong> ectomycorrhizae.<br />
Our results indicate that ectomycorrhizal symbioses with<br />
diverse plant hosts have evolved repeatedly, but also that<br />
there have been multiple reversals to a free-living condition.<br />
Using maximum likelihood, models <strong>of</strong> evolution that<br />
prohibit reversals from the mycorrhizal to the non-mycor-<br />
rhizal state were rejected relative to models that allow<br />
reversals. Our findings suggest that mycorrhizae are un-<br />
stable, evolutionarily dynamic associations. Contributed<br />
Presentation<br />
*HODGE, KATHIE T.' AND SPATAFORA, J.W.2. IDepts. <strong>of</strong><br />
Plant Pathology and Plant Biology, Cornell University,<br />
Ithaca, NY 14853 USA. 2Dept. <strong>of</strong> Botany, Oregon State<br />
University, Cowallis, OR 97330. Evolution <strong>of</strong> anamorph<br />
form in the Clavicipitaceae.<br />
More than thirteen form genera <strong>of</strong> anamorphic fungi have<br />
been associated with the insect-pathogenic members <strong>of</strong> the<br />
family Clavicipitaceae. Other form genera such as<br />
Culicinomyces and Engyodontium have no known<br />
teleomorphs, but exhibit suggestively similar morphology<br />
and life history characteristics. We sunnised that the multi-<br />
tude <strong>of</strong> anamorph forms reported for the genus Cordyceps, in<br />
particular, might contribute to the elucidation <strong>of</strong> taxa within<br />
3 5
this diverse genus. Cladistic analyses based on ribosomal<br />
DNA characters were employed to explore the evolutionary<br />
history <strong>of</strong> form in the family, and to investigate the mono-<br />
phyly <strong>of</strong> known and suspected clavicipitacean anamorph<br />
genera. <strong>The</strong> anamorph genera Engyodontium,<br />
Aphanocladium, Microhilum, Plesiospora, and<br />
Culicinomyces are linked for the first time to the<br />
Clavicipitaceae based on our phylogenetic analyses, and are<br />
predicted to be derived from unknown, Cordyceps-like<br />
teleomorphs. <strong>The</strong> potential <strong>of</strong> anamorph characters to<br />
contribute to the evolving taxonomy <strong>of</strong> the family will be<br />
discussed. Contributed Presentation<br />
*HORN, BRUCE W., GREENE, RONALD L. AND<br />
DORNER, JOE W. National Peanut Research Laboratory,<br />
USDA, ARS, Dawson, GA 3 1742-0509 USA. Vegetative<br />
compatibility in Aspergillus parasiticus and its effect on<br />
the inhibition <strong>of</strong> aflatoxin production by nontoxigenic<br />
strains.<br />
Aspergillus parasiticus produces the carcinogenic aflatoxins<br />
B 1, B2, G1 and G2 in agricultural commodities, particularly<br />
in peanuts. Populations <strong>of</strong> A. parasiticus comprise numerous<br />
vegetative compatibility groups (VCGs) that are widely<br />
distributed in the United States. Variation in aflatoxin<br />
production by isolates can be largely attributed to differences<br />
among VCGs. <strong>The</strong> use <strong>of</strong> nontoxigenic strains <strong>of</strong> A.<br />
parasiticus in biological control effectively reduces aflatoxin<br />
in peanuts when conidium-producing inoculum is applied to<br />
the soil surface. In this study, nontoxigenic mutants <strong>of</strong> A.<br />
parasiticus were paired in different proportions on an agar<br />
medium with aflatoxigenic strains belonging to the same<br />
isolate, to the same VCG but with the original wild types<br />
differing in phenotype, and to different VCGs. <strong>The</strong>re were no<br />
consistent differences in aflatoxin B 1 inhibition by<br />
nontoxigenic strains in pairings from the same VCG and<br />
pairings from different groups. <strong>The</strong>refore, the composition <strong>of</strong><br />
VCGs within a population may be <strong>of</strong> minor importance in<br />
predicting the efficacy <strong>of</strong> a particular nontoxigenic strain for<br />
reducing aflatoxin in peanuts. Poster<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
growth <strong>of</strong> aerial mycelia, which was accompanied by greatly<br />
elevated transcript levels <strong>of</strong> normally dikaryon-expressed<br />
hydrophobin genes. FRTI is therefore likely to act as a<br />
negative regulator <strong>of</strong> dikaryon-expressed genes. Epitope-<br />
tagging experiments have revealed that the FRTI gene<br />
product is localized at the cell surface, making it likely that it<br />
acts far iupstreami <strong>of</strong> the transcriptional events in this<br />
particular pathway. <strong>The</strong> genetic isolation <strong>of</strong> other members<br />
<strong>of</strong> this pathway is being facilitated through the use <strong>of</strong> the<br />
yeast two-hybrid approach. Symposium Presentation<br />
*HORTON, THOMAS R.', HOOD, KEVIN M.' AND<br />
MOLINA, RANDY2. loregon State University, Corvallis,<br />
OR, 97331, 2USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest<br />
Research Station, Corvallis OR, 97331. Below ground<br />
interactions <strong>of</strong> Douglas-fir and hemlock: ECM data from<br />
a stand <strong>of</strong> 400-year-old trees and a stand <strong>of</strong> 100-year-old<br />
Douglas-fir with hemlock seedlings.<br />
Western hemlock can replace Douglas-fir in old growth<br />
forests <strong>of</strong> Oregon. To assess the below ground interactions <strong>of</strong><br />
these two plant species, ectomycorrhizal (ECM) roots were<br />
sampled in a 400-year-old stand <strong>of</strong> Douglas-fir and western<br />
hemlock. Twenty-five soil cores were taken along a 50 meter<br />
transect. <strong>The</strong> total biomass <strong>of</strong> ECM roots was similar for<br />
both hosts. Forty-seven ECM types had greater than or equal<br />
to 0.005 g total dry weight. Ten <strong>of</strong> these fungi occurred with<br />
both tree hosts, 21 species occurred only with hemlock, and<br />
16 species only with Douglas-fir. However, we cannot rule<br />
out that the degree <strong>of</strong> host specificity indicated by these<br />
numbers is influenced by the patchiness <strong>of</strong> the fungi below<br />
ground. Indeed, 8 neighboring soil cores contained only<br />
hemlock roots, and many fungi were unique to these cores.<br />
We then tested whether establishing hemlock seedlings can<br />
tap into the fungal network associated with Douglas-fir to a<br />
greater degree than that suggested by the old growth study.<br />
Five hemlock seedlings were collected in 15 x 15 x 10 cm<br />
soil blocks from five 100-year-old Douglas-fir stands where<br />
hemlock saplings and trees were rare and at least 50 meters<br />
away. Nineteen ECM types have been characterized, with 11<br />
fungi on both hosts, 7 only on Douglas-fir, and 1 minor type<br />
on hemlock. <strong>The</strong>se seedlings accessed the ECM network<br />
HORTON, J. STEPHEN*, PALMER, GAIL E. AND<br />
J. De~t. <strong>of</strong> Sciences, Union<br />
College, Schenectady NY 12308 USA. After mating: the<br />
associated with Douglas-fir. Contributed Presentation<br />
~ ~ ~ i and ~ its e molecular n e role in mushroom develop- "HORTON, THOMAS R.', KRETZER, ANNETTE M.<br />
ment in Schizophyllum commune. AND BRUNS, THOMAS D.2. loregon State University,<br />
<strong>The</strong> molecular mechanisms controlling idownstreami Corvallis, OR, 9733 1, 2University <strong>of</strong> California, Berkeley,<br />
developmental events such as mushroom development are<br />
incompletely understood in the basidiomycete Schizophyllum<br />
CA 94720. Assessing fungal biodiversity using based<br />
methods.<br />
commune. <strong>The</strong> gene FRTI was originally identified by its We will provide an overview <strong>of</strong> polymerase chain reaction<br />
ability as a transgene to induce fruiting in certain (PCR) based methods useful in assessing fungal biodiversity,<br />
homokaryotic transformation recipients. However, gene with a focus on ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi. PCR primers<br />
disruption experiments have demonstrated that this gene is are available that target different regions <strong>of</strong> the mitochondispensable<br />
for dikaryotic fruiting. Non-fruiting drial and nuclear genomes and that are suitable for assessing<br />
homokaryotic FRTI disruptant strains exhibited enhanced biodiversity at different taxonomic levels. Methods <strong>of</strong><br />
36
analyses include matching <strong>of</strong> restriction fragment length<br />
polymorphisms (RFLPs) <strong>of</strong> the nuclear rDNA internal<br />
transcribed spacer (ITS) from unknown (vegetative) samples<br />
to known (sporocarp) samples, as well as direct sequence<br />
analyses from the ITS and other regions. Our results show<br />
that in a variety <strong>of</strong> ecosystems, the diversity <strong>of</strong> fungi based<br />
on ECM root tips is greater than that indicated by sporocarps<br />
surveys from the same sites. <strong>The</strong> main challenges that we are<br />
encountering include (i) incongruence between morphologi-<br />
cal and phylogenetic species concepts, (ii) infraspecific<br />
genetic variation between populations with reduced or no<br />
gene flow, (iii) the inherent cryptic and fine scale patchiness<br />
<strong>of</strong> the fungi in their vegetative state, (iv) the sporadic nature<br />
<strong>of</strong> sporocarp production. We promote a combined sampling<br />
approach that involves the collection <strong>of</strong> sporocarps and<br />
vegetative samples such as ECM roots from a study plot.<br />
Symposium<br />
"HOSAKA, K.I, CASTELLANO, M.A.2, SPATAFORA,<br />
J.W.' IDept. <strong>of</strong> Botany and Plant Pathology, Oregon State<br />
University, Corvallis, OR, USA, 2USDA Forest Service,<br />
Pacific Northwest Research Station, Forestry Sciences<br />
Laboratory, Corvallis, OR, USA. Molecular Phylogenetics<br />
<strong>of</strong> the genus Hysterangium.<br />
Hysterangium (Basidiomycota) comprises more than 40<br />
species which produce sequestrate, hypogeous sporocarps.<br />
Species <strong>of</strong> Hysterangium are ectomycorrhizal and are<br />
distributed worldwide with most species restricted to a single<br />
continent. <strong>The</strong> genus possesses a wide host range that<br />
includes the Pinaceae, Fagaceae and Myrtaceae.<br />
Hysterangium has been traditionally considered to be closely<br />
related to the Phallales due to its macroscopic resemblance to<br />
the egg stage <strong>of</strong> phalloid species and its possession <strong>of</strong><br />
rhizomorphs, a white and separable peridium, and a green- to<br />
brown-tinted gleba. Molecular analyses confirmed the<br />
placement <strong>of</strong> Hysterangium as closely related to the<br />
Phallales, but the exact nature <strong>of</strong> the relationship remains<br />
unresolved. Molecular phylogenetic studies utilizing<br />
multiple independent data sets have also supported a close<br />
relationship between the Phallales and Gomphales and<br />
suggested a closer than anticipated relationship between the<br />
Phallales, including Hysterangium, and the wood-inhabiting<br />
species <strong>of</strong> Ramaria subgenus Lentoramaria. In an attempt to<br />
resolve these relationships more clearly, we will present<br />
results from phylogenetic analyses from nuclear and mitochondrial<br />
rDNA for an expanded taxon sampling <strong>of</strong><br />
Hysterangium and the Gomphales/Phallales clade. Contributed<br />
Presentation<br />
*HUGHES, MONICA B., WEIR, ALEXANDER, AND<br />
ROGERS, SCOl'T 0. SUNY ESF, Forestry Drive, Illick<br />
Hall, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA. Root disease and fungal<br />
communities in a forest ecosystem.<br />
Fieldwork was conducted during the summer <strong>of</strong> 1999 on 120<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
3 7<br />
stumps at twelve sites on the Allegheny National Forest,<br />
Pennsylvania, to characterize the relationship between<br />
Armillaria species and Megacollybia platyphylla by deter-<br />
mining their sequence and position <strong>of</strong> colonization on<br />
stumps and roots. <strong>The</strong> latter fungus is a native, nonpatho-<br />
genic fungus that may act as a biocontrol agent <strong>of</strong><br />
Armillaria, limiting access <strong>of</strong> the pathogen to resources such<br />
as stumps, roots, and downed woody litter. Results from this<br />
study may ultimately contribute to forest management<br />
alternatives for the reduction <strong>of</strong> mortality cause by<br />
Armillaria root disease. At present, it remains difficult to<br />
distinguish Armillaria species using morphological and<br />
cultural characteristics. Somatic incompatibility and mating<br />
tests are sometimes inconsistent and frequently time consum-<br />
ing. As such, a molecular technique is being refined for the<br />
identification <strong>of</strong> Armillaria species in culture and from their<br />
vegetative structures. <strong>The</strong> quick identification <strong>of</strong> these<br />
species would facilitate a better understanding <strong>of</strong> host<br />
specificity in the Armillaria complex, and could be used to<br />
study colonization and spread <strong>of</strong> these fungi. Poster<br />
HUGHES, MONICA B., WEIR, ALEXANDER, AND<br />
DARIN, MAlTHEW P. SUNY ESF, 1 Forestry Drive, Illick<br />
Hall, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA. <strong>The</strong> taxonomic status <strong>of</strong><br />
Corethromyces bicolor Thaxt., from New Zealand,<br />
inferred from developmental and morphological studies.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Laboulbeniales remain an enigmatic and largely<br />
neglected group <strong>of</strong> ascomycete fungi, collected and studied<br />
by few mycologists worldwide. <strong>The</strong>ir obligate relationship<br />
with living arthropods, and the minute size <strong>of</strong> their fruiting<br />
bodies, have deterred all but a few dedicated students.<br />
However, other characteristics, including their marked<br />
specificity, and the consistency and stability <strong>of</strong> taxonomic<br />
concepts within the order, clearly delineate these fungi as<br />
prime candidates for exploration <strong>of</strong> broader patterns <strong>of</strong><br />
fungal biodiversity. Despite the utility <strong>of</strong> Thaxters' (1896-<br />
1931) publications on the taxonomy <strong>of</strong> this group, a number<br />
<strong>of</strong> unresolved questions remain, which must be dealt with as<br />
and when new material becomes available. Recently, as part<br />
<strong>of</strong> our current research on New Zealand Laboulbeniales,<br />
large numbers <strong>of</strong> leiodid beetles bearing thalli <strong>of</strong><br />
Corethromyces bicolor Thaxt. were collected. This material<br />
provides the basis for a re-assessment <strong>of</strong> the generic placement<br />
<strong>of</strong> this problematic fungus. Poster<br />
HUMBER, RICHARD A. USDA-ARS Plant, Soil &<br />
Nutrition Lab., Tower Rd., Ithaca, NY 14853 USA. Fungi<br />
for biocontrol: A look into the future.<br />
<strong>The</strong> use <strong>of</strong> fungal pathogens and parasites to control the<br />
populations or deleterious effects <strong>of</strong> other organisms is a<br />
concept that arose in the latter part <strong>of</strong> the 19th century. A<br />
number <strong>of</strong> fungi have been registered for use in biocontrol in<br />
the US and in other countries against a wide range <strong>of</strong> hosts<br />
but not all <strong>of</strong> those that have been registered remain in use.
<strong>The</strong>re are many <strong>of</strong> us in the mycological community who<br />
wonder whether the potential <strong>of</strong> many fungi for use as<br />
biocontrol agents will ever be realized. This symposium will<br />
<strong>of</strong>fer an evaluation <strong>of</strong> the prospects and problems for the<br />
future use <strong>of</strong> fungi as practical agents for the biological<br />
control <strong>of</strong> such diverse hosts as insects and other arthropods<br />
(M. Brownbridge), <strong>of</strong> weeds (W. Bruckart), <strong>of</strong> nematodes (S.<br />
Meyer), and <strong>of</strong> phytopathogens (G. Harman). Comments will<br />
also <strong>of</strong>fer the perspectives <strong>of</strong> a corporation that is acquiring,<br />
developing and marketing fungal biocontrol agents and <strong>of</strong><br />
critically important regulatory policies that affect the<br />
acquisition, development, and testing <strong>of</strong> fungi for biocontrol.<br />
Following the main presentations, ample time will be made<br />
available for general discussion <strong>of</strong> the issues, problems, and<br />
areas <strong>of</strong> opportunity that will determine the real prospects for<br />
the expansion <strong>of</strong> the spectrum <strong>of</strong> fungi to be used for<br />
practical biocontrol efforts. Symposium Presentation<br />
*ISIKHUEMHEN, OMOANGHE S. I, MONCALVO,<br />
JEAN-MARC2, VILGALYS, RYTAS2 AND NEDA,<br />
HITOSHI1. 'Kyushu Research Center, FFPRI, MAFF,<br />
Kuorokami 4-1 1-16, Kumamoto, JAPAN. 2Department <strong>of</strong><br />
Botany, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708~~~. Breeding<br />
pattern, phylogeny and relationships between<br />
Pleurotus tuberregium and Pleurotus javanicus.<br />
Mating behavior and phylogenetic relationships were<br />
investigated in Pleurotus tuberregium, an edible sclerotium-<br />
producing white-rot basidiomycete. Breeding and compat-<br />
ibility tests between strains from Nigeria, Ghana, Australia,<br />
New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea show that 19<br />
tuberregium has a tetrapolar breeding system. Inter-compat-<br />
ibility tests found strains from diverse geographic regions to<br />
be inter-fertile and to behave as a single biological species.<br />
Although f? tuberregium has a dimitic hyphal system and has<br />
sometimes been classified within other agaricoid genera<br />
including Lentinus or Panus, molecular systematic studies<br />
based on rDNA sequences clearly demonstrate it to be a<br />
member <strong>of</strong> the genus Pleurotus. Molecular systematic<br />
studies <strong>of</strong> the ITS region also reveal phylogenetic differences<br />
between strains from Africa and Australasia, which are still<br />
close enough to cross-breed and form viable intercontinental<br />
hybrids. Pleurotus javanicus was also studied to determine<br />
its breeding pattern, inter-compatibility among strains <strong>of</strong><br />
different origin and its phylogenetic relationship to f?<br />
tuberregium. f? javanicus proved to be compatible, forming<br />
hybrids derived from f? tuberregium and f? javanicus.<br />
Contributed Presentation<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
Ipire, Anzoategui State, Venezuela.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Santa Maria de Ipire's Cattle Paraplejic Syndrome<br />
(SMIS), is the cause <strong>of</strong> high mortality among cattle. Though<br />
several groups have worked in this problem, the cause <strong>of</strong> the<br />
disease has not been solved. Our hypothesis was that<br />
mycotoxins produced by endophytic fungi in grasses eaten<br />
by cattle could be the cause <strong>of</strong> the SMIS. Study plots were<br />
delimited and ten samples per grass species were collected.<br />
Discs were cut from the leave's apex, middle and sheath, and<br />
plated into CMA-DIFCO and MEA-DIFCO agar plates.<br />
Plates were examined during 30 days, and fungal colonies<br />
were transferred to axenic culture. Riddel mounts were made<br />
for identification. 54 species were obtained. Results <strong>of</strong> the<br />
correspondence analysis based in the 16 species more<br />
frequently encounted show that host plants are colonized<br />
basically by the same mycota. Most comonly isolated fungi<br />
were a non identified species <strong>of</strong> Colletotrichum, and three<br />
species <strong>of</strong> Fusarium: E pallidoroseurn, E verticilloides, and<br />
F: oxysporum. Isolated Fusarium produce toxins, and could<br />
be the reponsibles <strong>of</strong> the SMIS. Interestingly, no<br />
Acremonium.-like endophytes were isolated. Poster<br />
IZZO, ANTONIO D., GRUBISHA, LISA C., CAMACHO,<br />
FRANCISCO J., AND BRUNS, THOMAS D. Department<br />
<strong>of</strong> Plant and Microbial Biology, University <strong>of</strong><br />
California,Berkeley, CA, 94720 An initial view <strong>of</strong> the<br />
mycorrhizal community associated with Abies concolor in<br />
the Sierra National Forest.<br />
Teakettle Experimental forest is located in the Sierra<br />
National Forest lands, 80 km east <strong>of</strong> Fresno, California. This<br />
mixed conifer old-growth forest is composed <strong>of</strong> Abies<br />
concolor (white fir), Calcedrus decurrens (incense cedar),<br />
Pinus jeffreyi (Jeffrey pine), and Pinus lambertiana (sugar<br />
pine), grading to Abies magnifica (red fir) and Pinus contorta<br />
(lodgepole pine). A. concolor is economically important but<br />
little is known about its underground mycorrhizal associations.<br />
Using ITS-RFLP analysis, we have conducted an<br />
initial characterization <strong>of</strong> the ectomycorrhizal fungal<br />
community structure associated with Abies concolor. A total<br />
<strong>of</strong> one hundred forty-four 2 cm2 soil cores were taken across<br />
four 4-hectare plots in August 1999. Cores were subdivided<br />
into organic and mineral (top 10 cm) layers before sieving<br />
for root tips. Isolated root tips were grouped by morphotype,<br />
freeze-dried and weighed. Most ectomycorrhizal biomass<br />
was located in the mineral layer. A great deal <strong>of</strong> taxonomic<br />
richness was seen with roughly 75 RFLP types identified.<br />
Ten RFLP types accounted for over half <strong>of</strong> the overall<br />
biomass while 35 <strong>of</strong> the types appeared only once. <strong>The</strong> types<br />
exhibit different distributions across depth. Sequence-based<br />
identifications are underway and will be discussed in relation<br />
*ITURRIAGA, TERESA1, PETFUNI, LILIANE2, AND<br />
PETRINI, ORLANDO2. IDepartamento Biologia de<br />
Organismos,Universidad Simon Bolivar, Caracas-Venezuela, to other characterized communities. Presents-<br />
2Tera d Sott 5, CH-6949 Comano, Suiza. Identification <strong>of</strong><br />
endophytic fungi on pasture grasses in Santa Maria de<br />
tion<br />
38
*JAMES, STEVEN W., MALHOTRA, NITIN,<br />
MASSIMILLA, HOLLY J., AND MESSNER, KAREN E.<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Biology, Gettysburg College, Gettysburg, PA<br />
17325 USA. Genetic interactions between the nimO and<br />
Cdc7 initiators <strong>of</strong> DNA synthesis in Aspergillus nidulans.<br />
<strong>The</strong> nimoprotein <strong>of</strong> Aspergillus nidulans triggers DNA<br />
synthesis and acts in a checkpoint linking DNA synthesis<br />
with mitosis. A budding yeast homolog, Dbf4p, triggers<br />
DNA replication by activating the Cdc7p kinase, and<br />
escorting this kinase to targets at chromosomal origins. We<br />
isolated the Aspergillus Cdc7 homolog (Cdc7Asp), and<br />
overexpressed it using the inducible alcA gene promoter.<br />
High induction <strong>of</strong> alcA::Cdc7Asp rescued the temperature<br />
sensitive nimOl8 mutation, indicating that increased levels<br />
<strong>of</strong> Cdc7pAsp can compensate reduced nim<strong>of</strong>unction. In a<br />
yeast two-hybrid system the N-terminus <strong>of</strong> nimOp interacted<br />
specifically with Cdc7pAsp, proving that the proteins<br />
physically associate. <strong>The</strong> nimOp and Dbf4p C-termini<br />
contain a novel, essential zinc finger. Two-hybrid analysis <strong>of</strong><br />
C-terminal nimOp alleles, including some with directed zinc<br />
finger mutations, is underway. By a genetic approach we<br />
isolated suppressors <strong>of</strong> nimOl8 that identify two new loci,<br />
snoA and snoB(suppressor-<strong>of</strong>-nimO). Recessive snoA alleles<br />
also rescued a nimOgene deletion, suggesting that snoA<br />
mutations bypass the requirement for nimO. Semi-dominant<br />
snoB mutations did not rescue the nimO deletion, suggesting<br />
that snoBp may associate directly with nimOp. Efforts are<br />
underway to isolate snoA and snoB, and determine if<br />
Cdc7Asp is encoded by one <strong>of</strong> these suppressor genes.<br />
(Supported by NSF-RUI #MCB95-07485). Poster<br />
KALES, STEPHEN C. , THOMAS, DONOVAN & COT-<br />
TER, DAVID A. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences - University <strong>of</strong><br />
Windsor, ON N9B 3P4 Canada. Extracellular Proteolyitic<br />
Activity <strong>of</strong> the Saprolegniales: Potential Roles in Patho-<br />
genicity.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Saprolegniales, water borne members <strong>of</strong> the notorious<br />
Oomycota, have been historically considered mainly<br />
saprophytic. This view, however, may have recently<br />
changed. Saprolegnia and Achlya, both members <strong>of</strong> the order<br />
Saprolegniales, have been implicated as pathogens <strong>of</strong> both<br />
amphibians and fish. Like all fungi, these organisms require<br />
nutrient uptake by external enzymatic degradation. In 1997,<br />
researchers at Rhodes University, Tennessee, found that<br />
Achlya ambisexualis Raper E87 exibits induction <strong>of</strong> extracel-<br />
lular proteolytic activity by protein supplemented media.<br />
Continuing with this study, gelatin SDS-PAGE analysis has<br />
demonstrated multiple bands <strong>of</strong> extracellular proteolytic<br />
activity in several lab-maintained and natural isolates <strong>of</strong><br />
Achlya and Saprolegnia. This proteolytic activity may play a<br />
key role in not only nutrient uptake but also in their potential<br />
pathogenicity. <strong>The</strong> various bands <strong>of</strong> proteolytic activity were<br />
detectable over a wide range <strong>of</strong> pH, with optima <strong>of</strong> pH 8.<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
Slight tip alkalinity, shown by previous researchers, may<br />
provide optimal conditions for proteolytic activity at the<br />
point <strong>of</strong> host penetration. Most proteolytic acitivity was<br />
completely inhibited by the presence <strong>of</strong> PMSF, a serine<br />
protease inhibitor. <strong>The</strong>se results may shed light on the<br />
potential mechanism <strong>of</strong> host penetration, an area <strong>of</strong> concern<br />
due to the high frequency <strong>of</strong> concentrated fish fanning.<br />
Poster<br />
KAMINSKYJ, S. Dept. Biology, Univ. Saskatchewan,<br />
Saskatoon SK S7N 5E2, CANADA. Aspergillus<br />
"hypercellular" genes make keeping in shape a matter <strong>of</strong><br />
life and death.<br />
Aspergillus nidulans hyphae have growing tip cells with<br />
active mitotic cycles that are separated by septa from<br />
quiescent basal cells. Basal cells can form a new tip to<br />
branch. A. nidulans strains with the temperature sensitive<br />
hypAl allele are wildtype at 28m. If these strains are "upshifted"<br />
from 28- to 37-42., the tip cells die and the basal<br />
cells begin restrictive phenotype growth, producing wide,<br />
slow growing hyphae. Shortly after upshift, the tip cell nuclei<br />
appear to fragment, later degrading. Beginning -0.75 h after<br />
upshift, tip cells insert septa that are regularly spaced about<br />
40 pn apart. Both hypA6 and hypB5 strains also show this<br />
phenotype. Tip cell septa have a trilamellar structure similar<br />
to wildtype but lack a central pore. Tip cell septation requires<br />
F-actin and microtubule function, protein synthesis, and a<br />
minimum cell size. It is inhibited in upshifted (hypAl, nim)<br />
strains, but not in upshifted (hypA1, bim) strains. <strong>The</strong>se<br />
results suggest that septation in A, nidulans occurs at<br />
premarked sites in the cell cortex. Symposium Presentation<br />
KENNEY, MICHAEL J. USDA, Bldg. 77, room 127,<br />
JFKIA, Jamaica, NY 11430 USA. Plant diseases <strong>of</strong> domestic<br />
quarantine concern:USDA-APHIS-PPQ.<br />
<strong>The</strong> history, geographic distribution, and importance <strong>of</strong> the<br />
following are discussed:black stem rust <strong>of</strong> grain,Puccinia<br />
graministbarbeny quarantine, citrus canker Xanthomonas<br />
axonopodis pv citri in Florida, witchweed, Striga spp in the<br />
Carolinas, Karnal bunt, Tilletia indica on wheat, European<br />
larch canker Lachnellula wilkommi in Maine on Larix sp.<br />
and Pseudolarix and golden nematode Heterodera<br />
rostochiensis on potato in New York. <strong>The</strong> new plum pox<br />
virus on peach in Pennsylvania is discussed. Handouts will<br />
be available concerning USDA activities with certain<br />
domestic and foreign plant diseases. Poster<br />
"KERNAGHAN, GAVIN1, SIGLER, LYNNE2 AND<br />
KHASA, DAMASE'. 'Dept. <strong>of</strong> Renewable Resources,<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Alberta, Edmonton, AB Canada T6G 2H1<br />
2UAMH, Devonian Botanic Garden, Edmonton, AB Canada<br />
T6G 2E1. Communities <strong>of</strong> root-associated fungi in<br />
northern conifer nurseries.<br />
Fungal communities associated with the fine feeder roots <strong>of</strong><br />
19
containerized Picea glauca seedlings were assessed in four<br />
large conifer nurseries in northern Alberta by a combination<br />
<strong>of</strong> molecular and cultural techniques. Because <strong>of</strong> their small<br />
size and morphological homogeneity, random subsamples <strong>of</strong><br />
fine feeder roots from each seedling were used for DNA<br />
extraction. PCR amplification <strong>of</strong> fungal rDNA (internal<br />
transcribed spacer and a portion <strong>of</strong> the 28s gene) resulted in<br />
multiple products which were separated on the basis <strong>of</strong> size<br />
variation. Products that were too similar in size for separa-<br />
tion by electrophoresis were separated by cloning and<br />
sequencing. PCR-RFLP and sequence analysis were then<br />
used to compare the PCR products to those from representa-<br />
tive cultures obtained from surface sterilized feeder roots.<br />
Sequences not corresponding to the cultured fungi were<br />
compared to those available in GenBank. <strong>The</strong><br />
ectomycorrhizal basidiomycetes (<strong>The</strong>lephora americana and<br />
Amphinema byssoides) were relatively ubiquitous, while the<br />
distributions <strong>of</strong> mycorrhizal and non-mycorrhizal asco-<br />
mycetes (Wilcoxina mikolae, Phialocephala fortinii,<br />
Cylindrocarpon sp., a sterile fungus putatively placed in the<br />
Sclerotinicaeae, and other unidentified ascomycetes) were<br />
more variable. Contributed Presentation<br />
*KERRIGAN, JULIA L.I, SMITH, MAUDY TH.'AND<br />
ROGERS, JACK D.'. 'Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology, Washington<br />
State University, Pullman, WA 99163 USA, Tentraalbureau<br />
voor Schirnrnelcultures, Yeast Division, Delft, <strong>The</strong> Nether-<br />
lands. Ascobohyozyma americanae, a unique yeast associ-<br />
ated with nematodes.<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
KLICH, MAREN A. USDA, ARS, Southern Regional<br />
Research Center, P.O. Box 19687, New Orleans LA 70179<br />
USA. Biogeography <strong>of</strong> Aspergillus species.<br />
Based on Aspergillus species reported in over 200 studies <strong>of</strong><br />
micr<strong>of</strong>ungi from soils and litter, chi-square analyses were<br />
conducted on species occurrence in five biomes and in five<br />
latitude ranges. <strong>The</strong>re was no overall trend in distribution <strong>of</strong><br />
aspergilli by biome, but, individual sections <strong>of</strong> the genus had<br />
distinct distribution patterns. Most members <strong>of</strong> sections<br />
Aspergillus, Nidulantes, Flavipedes and Circumdati occurred<br />
at greater than expected frequencies in desert soils. Members<br />
<strong>of</strong> sections Cervini and Ornati occurred at greater than<br />
expected frequencies in forest soils. <strong>The</strong>re was no distinct<br />
pattern <strong>of</strong> species occurrence for either wetland or cultivated<br />
soils, although members <strong>of</strong> subgenus Aspergillus were quite<br />
rare in cultivated soils. Many species occurred at less than<br />
expected frequencies in grassland soils. In assessing distribu-<br />
tion <strong>of</strong> aspergilli by latitude, there was an overall trend for<br />
members <strong>of</strong> the genus to occur at greater than expected<br />
frequencies in the subtropicaVwarm temperate zone between<br />
26 and 35 degrees latitude. Exceptions were: section Nigri<br />
which was tropical to subtropical in distribution; and<br />
sections Cervini and Omati which occurred at greater than<br />
expected frequencies at latitudes above 35 degrees. Poster<br />
KO, KWAN SO0 AND JUNG, HACK SUNG. School <strong>of</strong><br />
Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul,<br />
Korea. Three nonorthologous ITSl types are present in<br />
the mushroom Trichaptum abietinum.<br />
A new teleomOr~hic genus* Ascobot~ozma, with a sing1e To explore phylogenetic relationships <strong>of</strong> Trichaptum species,<br />
species, americanae, is proposed. Its anamorph is a ITS regions <strong>of</strong> nuclear rDNAs were sequenced and analyzed.<br />
Borryozyma that differs from the type species, B. Gene trees from ITS 1 and ITS2 sequences showed striking<br />
nematodophila, on distributional, physiological, and molecu- discrepancy on relationships <strong>of</strong> eight T. abietinum strains.<br />
lar criteria. Bot~oz~ma nematodo~hila was isolated from While all strains <strong>of</strong> T. abietinum had a single orthologous<br />
nematodes associated with Sour-rot <strong>of</strong> grape in Verona, Italy. 1 ~ type, ~ there 2 were three paralogous types in ITS^ region.<br />
Ascobotryozyma americanae was isolated from wounds, <strong>The</strong> ITS2 gene tree showed that all T. abietinum strains were<br />
galleries, and frass <strong>of</strong> the poplar-borer, Saperda calcarata, in clustered into a single group with poor resolution and<br />
Populus tremuloides in eastern Washington, USA. grouped with two T. fusco-violaceum strains. In the ITS1<br />
Botryozyma is an unusual Yeast <strong>of</strong> thalli which gene tree, however, only two T. abietinum strains with type I<br />
adhere to the surface <strong>of</strong> free-living nematodes in certain sequence were closely related to T. fusco-violaceum. And<br />
genera. <strong>The</strong> basal thallus cell is branched and acts as a type I1 sequence <strong>of</strong> three T, abietinum strains showed some<br />
holdfast, attaching the thallus to the nematode. A single cell similar sequence features to those <strong>of</strong>^. bifome and T.<br />
buds from the apex <strong>of</strong> the basal cell, and from it multiple subchartaceum, although they were clustered with other<br />
cells bud from each subsequent cell. Growth is determinant, strains <strong>of</strong>^. abietinum and T. fusco-violaceum. PCR amplifiand<br />
a new thallus is formed when a short series <strong>of</strong> cells, cation tests using type-specific primers showed that type I<br />
including a basal cell, disarticulate together. Ascobotryozma and type 11 ITS^ sequences are present in all strains <strong>of</strong> T.<br />
is characterized by globose asci bearing four lunate as- abietinum. <strong>The</strong> results suggest that gene duplication <strong>of</strong> the<br />
cospores. Fusion <strong>of</strong> thallus cells precedes ascus formation. ancestral ITS^ region might have occurred prior to evolu-<br />
<strong>The</strong> ultrastructure and nematode specificity have been tionary radiation <strong>of</strong> Trichaptum and both <strong>of</strong> duplicated types<br />
examined to further characterize this unique fungus. Conrrib- have been preserved in same strains. ~~d another type, type<br />
uted Presentation 111, was amplified only in three T. abietinum strains collected<br />
from Korea, suggesting that a new local geographic subtype<br />
has been introduced in Korean strains. Poster<br />
40
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
*KRETZER1, ANNETTE M., MOLINA2, RANDY AND sity, Durham, NC, 27708 USA, 3Horticulture Research<br />
SPATAFORA', JOSEPH W. IDepartment <strong>of</strong> Botany and International, Wellesbourne, Warwickshire, CV35 9EF, UK.<br />
Plant Pathology, Oregon State University, Corvallis OR Sequence analysis <strong>of</strong> the A mating type factor <strong>of</strong> Coprinus<br />
9733 1 USA, 'USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest bilanatus.<br />
Research Station, Corvallis OR 9733 1 USA. <strong>The</strong> morphological<br />
species Rhizopogon vinicolor Smith is a complex <strong>of</strong><br />
two sympatric biological species: evidence from internal<br />
transcribed spacer sequences and microsatellite loci.<br />
Bisporic, pseudo-homothallic hymenomycetes produce<br />
dikaryotic spores whose nuclear components can be mating<br />
compatible. we report the cloning and sequence analysis <strong>of</strong><br />
the A mating type factor <strong>of</strong> one such fungus,Coprinus<br />
Rhizopogon vinicolor Smith (Boletales, Basidiomycota) is bilanatus. <strong>The</strong> sequence data for the A factor <strong>of</strong> C. bilanatus<br />
the only fungus reported to form tuberculate may provide insight into the unusual mating phenomena <strong>of</strong><br />
ectomycorrhizae (EMS) on Pseudotsuga menziesii (Douglas- the species as a host for the heterologous expression <strong>of</strong> C.<br />
fir). During our studies on tuberculate EMS <strong>of</strong> P: menziesii in cinereus A mating genes (Challen et al. 1993, Mol. Gen.<br />
the Pacific Northwest, we noticed that they were actually Genet. 241: 474). Only one class <strong>of</strong> the pair <strong>of</strong> divergently<br />
formed by at least two different fungi as indicated by transcribed homeodomain proteins from C. cinereus (the<br />
sequence analysis <strong>of</strong> the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) HD2 genes) are capable <strong>of</strong> initiating the A-regulated pathway<br />
region. Fungal sequences from the two different tuberculate in C. bilanatus. At least two pairs <strong>of</strong> homeodomain genes<br />
EMS-types differed in 28 positions (-4.5% sequence varia- have been detected at the C. bilanatus A factor which<br />
tion). One sequence grouped with known ITS sequences appears to possess a similar organization and -40% amino<br />
from Rhizopogon section Fulviglebae, while the other<br />
grouped tightly with collection T19383. Interestingly, R.<br />
acid identity to C. cinereus. Poster<br />
vinicolor fruitbody collections including type collections *LEACOCK, PATRICK R.I, MUELLER, GREGORY M.I,<br />
also fall into these two distinct clades. We confirmed this SCHMIT, JOHN PAUL1, AND MURPHY, JOHN EZ<br />
finding with a second dataset, in which we scored presence1 'Department <strong>of</strong> Botany, Field Museum <strong>of</strong> Natural History,<br />
absence <strong>of</strong> alleles at five independent loci (ITS and 4 Chicago IL 60605 USA and 'Deep Springs College, HC 72<br />
microsatellite loci) for both fruitbody collections and Box 45001, Dyer NV 89010 USA. Diversity and composituberculate<br />
EMS samples. This dataset also separated R. tion <strong>of</strong> macr<strong>of</strong>ungi in oak woodland communities <strong>of</strong> the<br />
vinicolor sensu Smith into two distinct groups reflecting the Chicago region.<br />
fixation <strong>of</strong> different alleles in the two groups and the lack <strong>of</strong><br />
recombination between them. Lack <strong>of</strong> recombination is not a<br />
Concerns with <strong>of</strong> the species-rich fragments <strong>of</strong><br />
native ecosystems in the greater Chicago area prompted an<br />
result <strong>of</strong> ongoing geographic isolation, since both taxa cooccurred<br />
in our studies at very small spatial scale (10m x<br />
10m plots); instead both taxa appear to be reproductively<br />
isolated. Contributed Presentation<br />
array <strong>of</strong> studies on plant, animal, and fungal diversity at<br />
targeted sites and habitats. In suburban forest preserves we<br />
are investigating the response <strong>of</strong> macr<strong>of</strong>ungi to restoration<br />
management (brush removal and burning) in oak woodland.<br />
"KRUEGER, DIRK AND PETERSEN, RONALD H.<br />
Botany Dept., University <strong>of</strong> Tennessee, Knoxville TN<br />
37996-1 100 USA. Intercompatibility studies in strains <strong>of</strong><br />
Polypoms brumalis and I! badius.<br />
In an and phylogenetic the<br />
genus Polyporus (stipitate ~ol~~ores) mating systems and<br />
intercompatibility <strong>of</strong> single-basidiospore isolates are being<br />
elucidated. This presentation focuses on insights gained into<br />
primarily two species: Polyporus badius (Melanopus group)<br />
and Pol~~oms brumalis (Polyporellus group). It was found<br />
that some geographically distant strains were<br />
intercompatible, while other combinations proved incompat-<br />
Tko sampling methods have been applied that provide<br />
quantitative data for areas <strong>of</strong> 0.1 ha, each composed <strong>of</strong> 40<br />
subplots. Plots with contiguous subplots are sampled on<br />
numerous visits throughout the growing season. Rapid<br />
assessment transects <strong>of</strong> linearly spaced subplots are sampled<br />
once per month for July, August, and September, when<br />
conditions are optimal for fruiting. Analysis indicates that<br />
data can be obtained by the less intensive<br />
transect method. we have a solid baseline for the<br />
fungal composition <strong>of</strong> non-restored oak woodland during<br />
three years sampling at two sites. <strong>The</strong> high diversity (over<br />
200 taxa) comprises several functional guilds <strong>of</strong><br />
ectomycorr~iza~, saprobic (on soil, leaf litter, wood), and<br />
ible. <strong>The</strong> pattern may be a<br />
morphological, ecological, and phylogeneticlpopulation<br />
genetic approach. Poster<br />
parasitic species. Ongoing data collection from the site<br />
where restoration began in 1999, in comparison to that from<br />
the nearby unrestored site, will document impacts <strong>of</strong> man-<br />
KUES, URS~AI, *JAMES, TIMOTHY, y.2, CHALLEN,<br />
MIKE p.3, AND VILGALYS, RYTAS2. lInstitute <strong>of</strong> Microbiology,<br />
Swiss Federal Institute <strong>of</strong> Technology, CH-8092<br />
Zurich, Switzerland, 'Department <strong>of</strong> Botany, Duke Univer-<br />
4 1<br />
agement and may point to indicator fungi for evaluating<br />
restoration progress in oak woodland communities. Symposium<br />
Presentation
LEANDER, CELESTE, A. AND *PORTER, DAVID. Dept.<br />
<strong>of</strong> Botany, University <strong>of</strong> Georgia, Athens GA 30605 USA.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Labyrinthulomycota is comprised <strong>of</strong> three distinct<br />
lineages.<br />
<strong>The</strong> labyrinthulids and thraustochytrids, identified by the<br />
presence <strong>of</strong> bothrosomes and the associated ectoplasmic net,<br />
are ubiquitous marine saprobes classified as stramenopiles in<br />
the kingdom Protista. We have sequenced a partial ssurDNA<br />
region for 10 isolates in five genera, including Diplophrys<br />
marina (a proposed labyrinthulid relative which lacks<br />
bothrosomes). We also include sequences <strong>of</strong> two isolates <strong>of</strong><br />
the northern quahog pathogen, QPX, a thraustochytrid <strong>of</strong><br />
uncertain taxonomic affinities. Our ssurDNA sequence<br />
analysis indicates that members <strong>of</strong> the Labyrinthulomycota<br />
fall into three phylogenetic groups. <strong>The</strong>se groups correspond<br />
to the three morphological extremes found within the<br />
phylum; the labyrinthulids, the thraustochytrids, and the<br />
labyrinthuloids. QPX sequences support its inclusion as a<br />
thraustochytrid. Diplophrys marina also shows phylogenetic<br />
affinity with the thraustochytrids. Contributed Presentation<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
Brunswick, NJ 08901-8520 USA. Molecular phylogeny<br />
and morphology <strong>of</strong> a species <strong>of</strong> Ephelis found on<br />
Pennisetum alopecuroides in North <strong>America</strong>.<br />
A species <strong>of</strong> the anamorphic fungus Ephelis was found to<br />
infect the ornamental grass cultivar Hameln (Pennisetum<br />
alopecuroides) in the United States. Symptoms <strong>of</strong> infection<br />
include formation <strong>of</strong> a stroma yielding conidia on the<br />
surfaces <strong>of</strong> aborted inflorescence primordia. Plants fre-<br />
quently bear both infected and uninfected culms. Cuticle<br />
peels and sections <strong>of</strong> developing leaves revealed that the<br />
fungus is epibiotic on aerial plant parts. Endophytic myce-<br />
lium was not observed. Sections <strong>of</strong> developing stromata<br />
suggested that necrosis <strong>of</strong> the inflorescence occurred within<br />
the stroma. However, the majority <strong>of</strong> species <strong>of</strong> Balansieae<br />
do not cause necrosis <strong>of</strong> host plants. <strong>The</strong> relationship <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Pennisetum epibiont to various North <strong>America</strong>n and Asian<br />
species in genera Balansia, Myriogenospora, Neoclaviceps,<br />
and Claviceps was evaluated through analysis <strong>of</strong> rDNA<br />
internal transcribed spacer regions. <strong>The</strong> geographic origin <strong>of</strong><br />
this species <strong>of</strong> Balansieae is postulated. Artificial infection <strong>of</strong><br />
seedlings grown in aseptic culture by placing conidia on the<br />
*LEV'N9 ANNA L.7 BAlTLES7 J'* AND BRUNSy junction <strong>of</strong> the blade and coleoptile sheath. Poster<br />
THOMAS D. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Environmental Science, Policy, and<br />
Management, University <strong>of</strong> California, Berkeley CA 94720 *LI, BING, AND FAYE MURRIN. D~~~~~~~ <strong>of</strong> ~ i ~ l ~ ~<br />
USA. Ectomycorrhizal colonization dynamics on mixedconifer<br />
seedlings following disturbance.<br />
~ ~ ~ university ~ r<strong>of</strong> ~ i ~ ~ ~ l f ~ NF, ~ canada ~ d l ~<br />
AlB3X9. Integrin-like protein in an insect-pathogenic<br />
~ d ,<br />
Ectomycorrhizal (EM) fungi are an integral part <strong>of</strong> seedling fungus.<br />
establishment following disturbances. <strong>The</strong> level <strong>of</strong> colonization,<br />
the diversity <strong>of</strong> colonizing fungi, and the species <strong>of</strong><br />
fungi can all have important effects on the survival and<br />
growth <strong>of</strong> young seedlings regenerating after a disturbance.<br />
we looked at colonization by EM fungi On conifer seedlings<br />
planted across 1 -ha forest clearings in the Sierra Nevada,<br />
CA. We planted seedlings <strong>of</strong> Pseudotsuga menziesii and<br />
Pinus ponderosa along 4 transects that began 12m within the<br />
intact forest and extended 30m toward the center <strong>of</strong> the<br />
clearing. Seedling survival, growth, root:shoot ratio, percent<br />
mycorrhizal colonization and mycorrhizal diversity were<br />
measured. Sampling after two growing seasons shows that<br />
percent mycorrhizal colonization on the roots <strong>of</strong> Ps.<br />
menziesii declines significantly with increasing distance<br />
away from the edge <strong>of</strong> the intact forest. Percent colonization<br />
on I! ponderosa, however, shows no relationship to distance<br />
from the intact forest. Ps. menziesii and F! ponderosa share<br />
several <strong>of</strong> the most common EM fungi, based on ITS-RFLP<br />
types. EM species richness on Ps. menziesii roots did not<br />
change along the transects, although the species <strong>of</strong> fungi<br />
colonizing the roots shift with increasing distance away from<br />
the intact forest. EM species on ~onderosa show no such<br />
shift. Contributed Presentation<br />
cell attachment in mammalian cells is mediated by integrins,<br />
a family <strong>of</strong> transmembrane proteins also involved in signalling.<br />
Naturally occurring protoplasts <strong>of</strong> entomophthoralean<br />
fungi multiply in the hernolymph <strong>of</strong> host larvae during<br />
pathogenesis and there is evidence that they attach to internal<br />
host tissues during disease progression. Proteins sharing<br />
antigenic identity with mammalian integrins have previously<br />
been identified in just a few fungi. we have identified an<br />
integrin-like protein in protoplasts <strong>of</strong> the insect pathogenic<br />
fungus, Entomophaga aulicae, which crossreacted with<br />
antibodies to mammalian and fungal integrins. On SDS-<br />
PAGE gels a reactive band migrated at 71 k~~ and its<br />
mobility was not influenced by DlT . Experiments designed<br />
to test the attachment <strong>of</strong> protoplasts to substrates coated with<br />
fibronectin and collagen, two <strong>of</strong> the integrin-binding<br />
molecules in mammalian cells, showed no<br />
<strong>of</strong> protop~asts to these substrates. surprisingly,<br />
the RFDS peptide sequence used as a control in these<br />
experiments had a detrimental effect on the protoplasts,<br />
while RGD peptides did not. We are presently performing<br />
immuno~~uorescence m~croscopy to determine the distribution<br />
<strong>of</strong> the integrin-like protein in protoplasts and conidial<br />
germ tubes <strong>of</strong> E. aulicae, and testing the attachment <strong>of</strong><br />
*LEWIS, ELIZABETH. A*, WHITE, J.E, JR., SULLIVAN,<br />
RAY. AND BERGEN, MARSHALL. Rutgers University,<br />
Foran Hall-Rm 23 1-Plant Path Dept, 59 Dudley Road, New<br />
protoplasts to cell lines from the host insect. Contributed<br />
Presentation<br />
42
*LICKEY, E.B ., HUGHES, K.W., AND PETERSEN, R.H.<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Botany, Univ. <strong>of</strong> Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996.<br />
Systematic studies in the Basidiomycete genus<br />
Clavicorona.<br />
Genus Clavicorona includes 10 described and as many as 7<br />
previously undescribed species. This study was undertaken<br />
to delimit and characterize the putative new species and to<br />
determine possible phylogenetic relationships among the<br />
species. Mating studies in this group have been difficult due<br />
to the reluctance <strong>of</strong> many isolates to cross within species<br />
boundaries. <strong>The</strong> species in this genus are also very similar<br />
morphologically. RFLP analysis on PCR amplified products<br />
<strong>of</strong> the ITS 1 - 5.8s - ITS 2 region <strong>of</strong> nuclear ribosomal DNA<br />
provided some diagnostic patterns to delimit taxa. <strong>The</strong>se<br />
groups are generally supported with respect to basidia, spore,<br />
and gloeocystidia morphology. A phylogenetic reconstruction<br />
was performed using sequence data <strong>of</strong> the ribosomal ITS<br />
region and showed support for the existence <strong>of</strong> several new<br />
species in distinct clades. Poster<br />
*LILLESKOV, ERIK A. AND BRUNS, THOMAS D. Dept.<br />
<strong>of</strong> Plant and Microbial Biology, 11 1 Koshland Hall, University<br />
<strong>of</strong> California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA. <strong>The</strong> secret<br />
life <strong>of</strong> a resupinate ectomycorrhizal fungus, Tomentella<br />
sublilacina.<br />
Tomentella sublilacina is a common ectomyco~hizal fungus<br />
in a broad range <strong>of</strong> forest ecosystems. In order to develop an<br />
integrated understanding <strong>of</strong> its ecology, we are investigating<br />
its spore dispersal mode, spore colonization ability, population<br />
structure, and interaction with soil nutrients and disturbance.<br />
So far we have found that: 1) Its resupinate<br />
basidiocarps, which fruit on the underside <strong>of</strong> logs or beneath<br />
leaf litter, were heavily colonized by fungivorous oribatid<br />
mites that fed heavily on spores and hyphae. Vital staining<br />
with fluorescein diacetate (FDA) revealed that many <strong>of</strong> the<br />
spores in mite frass were alive. Furthermore, setae <strong>of</strong> the<br />
immature mites were <strong>of</strong>ten covered with spores. Dispersal by<br />
invertebrates may be important, because the belowground<br />
resupinate fruiting habit does not lend itself to dispersal by<br />
wind, and there is no indication that the basidiocarps are<br />
eaten by mammals. 2) Laboratory spore inoculation trials<br />
and field bioassays have revealed that spores <strong>of</strong> T.<br />
sublilacina colonize Bishop pine seedlings readily. 3)<br />
Preliminary results from amplified fragment length polymorphism<br />
(AFLP) analysis <strong>of</strong> basidiocarps suggest that individual<br />
genets can extend over tens <strong>of</strong> centimeters on individual<br />
logs, but logs separated by -2 m were colonized by<br />
unique genets. We will discuss these facts in the context <strong>of</strong><br />
models <strong>of</strong> fungal life history strategy. Contributed Presentation<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
LIZON, PAVEL. Institute <strong>of</strong> Botany, Dubravska 14, SK-842<br />
23 Bratislava, Slovakia. Conservation <strong>of</strong> fungi in Europe.<br />
Red lists <strong>of</strong> threatened fungi has been compiled for several<br />
European countries and some countries have also laws<br />
protecting selected fungal taxa (both non-lichenized and<br />
lichenized). <strong>The</strong> European Council for Conservation <strong>of</strong><br />
Fungi, founded in 1985 as an informal board <strong>of</strong> national<br />
representatives, collects and distributes information, and<br />
organizes meetings. ECCF current activities cover cooperation<br />
with the Bern Convention (inclusion <strong>of</strong> fungi) and<br />
the International Union for Conservation <strong>of</strong> Nature (fungal<br />
specialists group), and mapping <strong>of</strong> threatened species in<br />
Europe. Poster<br />
"LONGCORE, JOYCE E.', NICHOLS, DONALD K.' AND<br />
PESSIER, ALLAN P.' 'Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences,<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Maine, Orono ME 04469 USA, 'Dept. <strong>of</strong><br />
Pathology, National Zoological Park, Smithsonian Institution,<br />
Washington DC 20008 USA, 'Dept. <strong>of</strong> Pathology, <strong>The</strong><br />
Zoological <strong>Society</strong> <strong>of</strong> San Diego, San Diego CA 921 12 USA.<br />
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, the cause <strong>of</strong><br />
chytridiomycosis in amphibians.<br />
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Chytridiomycota:<br />
Chytridiales), grows as rhizoid-bearing, spherical thalli<br />
inside keratinized epidermal cells <strong>of</strong> amphibians. Epidermal<br />
thickening and excessive shedding <strong>of</strong> skin occur with<br />
chytridiomycosis, and the disease can be lethal. In culture,<br />
thread-like rhizoids emerge from one or more sites on<br />
monocentric (non-mycelial), approximately spherical thalli,<br />
which discharge zoospores through one or more inoperculate<br />
papillae. Papillar number is related to the size <strong>of</strong> the sporangium,<br />
and papillar length changes with microenvironment.<br />
In contrast to other chytridialean genera, colonial<br />
development is common. Resting spores have not been found<br />
in amphibian skin or in culture. Zoospore ultrastructure,<br />
especially <strong>of</strong> the kinetosomal area, provides taxonomic<br />
characters that separate this chytrid from those in other<br />
clades <strong>of</strong> the Chytridiales; this separation is supported by the<br />
position <strong>of</strong> B. dendrobatidis in chytrid phylogenies based on<br />
analyses <strong>of</strong> 18s rDNA. We have isolated the organism from<br />
12 species <strong>of</strong> captive and wild amphibians from North<br />
<strong>America</strong>; isolates are morphologically indistinguishable, and<br />
molecular population studies are in progress. <strong>The</strong> optimum<br />
temperature for growth <strong>of</strong> the type isolate <strong>of</strong><br />
Batrachochytrium is 23 C. Temperature may influence how<br />
chytridiomycosis affects amphibian populations. Symposium<br />
Presentation
*LOZUPONE, CATHERINE A. AND KLEIN, DONALD A.<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Microbiology, Colorado State University, Fort<br />
Collins CO 80524 USA. Molecular and cultural assess-<br />
ment <strong>of</strong> chytrid and Spizellomyces populations in grass-<br />
land soils.<br />
Developing accurate detection and quantification techniques<br />
for members <strong>of</strong> the phylum Chytridiomycota (chytrids) is<br />
essential for determining their role in the environment.<br />
Chytrid ecological studies performed to date have relied<br />
heavily on cultural and microscopic protocols, which may be<br />
limited for quantitative studies in particular. In this study, a<br />
PCR-based technique known as MPN-PCR, as well as<br />
cultural most probable number (MPN) technique, was used<br />
to detect and quantify members <strong>of</strong> the genus Spizellomyces<br />
in disturbed and nitrogen-treated soils from a grassland<br />
ecosystem. PCR primers specific for members <strong>of</strong> the genus<br />
Spizellomyces were developed by sequencing the internal<br />
transcribed spacer region 2 (ITS2) <strong>of</strong> ribosomal DNA. ITS2<br />
region sequences were highly conserved within species and<br />
variable between species and genera. Cultural MPN and<br />
MPN-PCR data revealed that chytridiomycetous fungi,<br />
including members <strong>of</strong> the genus Spizellomyces, are abundant<br />
in shortgrass steppe ecosystems. No significant differences<br />
were found between native and disturbed control soils but it<br />
appeared in 3 separate assays that chytrid populations<br />
increased in response to disturbance. <strong>The</strong> primer sets and<br />
protocols developed in this study should provide the frame-<br />
work for continued ecological studies <strong>of</strong> this interesting<br />
chytrid genus in the future. Symposium Presentation<br />
"LUTZONI, FRANCOIS', PAGEL, MARK2 AND REEB,<br />
VALERIE3. 'Dept. <strong>of</strong> Botany, <strong>The</strong> Field Museum, Chicago IL<br />
60605, 2School <strong>of</strong> Animal & Microbial Sciences, University<br />
<strong>of</strong> Reading, Whiteknights Reading RG6 6AJ UK, 3Dept. <strong>of</strong><br />
Biological Sciences, University <strong>of</strong> Illinois at Chicago (M/C<br />
066), Chicago IL 60607 Contribution <strong>of</strong> the lichen symbiosis<br />
to the diversification <strong>of</strong> ascomycetes.<br />
<strong>The</strong> acceptance by the mycological and lichenological<br />
communities, more than 12 years ago, that basidiomycetes<br />
tightly associated with green algae or cyanobacteria are<br />
lichens, simultaneously established, for the first time, that<br />
lichens (including both asco- and basidiolichens) are derived<br />
from multiple independent origins. Because approximately<br />
one-fifth <strong>of</strong> all known fungi are lichenized and more than<br />
98% <strong>of</strong> the diversity <strong>of</strong> lichens is within the ascomycetes,<br />
one crucial question remains to be answered: How many<br />
independent origins <strong>of</strong> lichens took place during the evolution<br />
<strong>of</strong> the ascomycetes? To address this question we have<br />
sequenced a 1 kb and a 1.4 kb fragment at the 5' end <strong>of</strong> the<br />
small and large subunits <strong>of</strong> the nuclear ribosomal DNA,<br />
respectively, for 54 species representing 3 1 orders <strong>of</strong><br />
ascomycetes. <strong>The</strong> combined maximum parsimony analysis<br />
revealed two equally - - most parsimonious trees. <strong>The</strong> ancestral<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
*MARGOITTA, JOSEPH A. AND JOSEPHINE TAYLOR.<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biology, Stephen F. Austin State University,<br />
Nacogdoches TX 75962 USA. Host-pathogen interactions<br />
in a susceptible and a resistant response to black spot<br />
disease in roses.<br />
Black spot disease, caused by Diplocarpon rosae, is the most<br />
important disease <strong>of</strong> roses. Hybrid tea roses are highly<br />
susceptible, exhibiting necrotic lesions with feathery<br />
margins. Species roses such as the chestnut rose (Rosa<br />
roxburghii) possess varying degrees <strong>of</strong> resistance and<br />
represent potential sources <strong>of</strong> resistance gene(s) for rose<br />
breeders. Leaflets <strong>of</strong> the susceptible Rosa hybrida cultivar<br />
Garden Party and <strong>of</strong> Rosa roxburghii were inoculated with a<br />
suspension <strong>of</strong> conidia and prepared for transmission electron<br />
microscopy at five days post-inoculation in order to examine<br />
the interaction between host and pathogen and elucidate<br />
potential mechanism(s) <strong>of</strong> resistance. On both hosts subcuticular<br />
hyphae were established and haustoria, <strong>of</strong>ten partially<br />
covered with collar material, were produced in epidermal<br />
and mesophyll cells. Fungal structures were highly vacuolate<br />
in R. roxburghii, and attempts at cell wall penetration were<br />
frequently associated with the deposition <strong>of</strong> additional host<br />
wall material. Produced on both hosts, acervuli were reduced<br />
in size and lacked mature spores on R. roxburghii. Necrotic<br />
host cells were noted in both interactions, but visible<br />
symptoms were only observed on susceptible leaflets. <strong>The</strong><br />
extent to which D. rosae developed on R. roxburghii suggests<br />
that this species rose possesses a high degree <strong>of</strong><br />
horizontal resistance to the black spot pathogen. Poster<br />
"MATA, JUAN L., PETERSEN, RONALD H. AND<br />
HUGHES, KAREN W. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Botany, University <strong>of</strong><br />
Tennessee, Knoxville TN 37996-1 100, USA. Lentinuh <strong>of</strong><br />
the New World.<br />
Until recently, only Lentinula boryana (Berk. & Mont.)<br />
Pegler was thought to fruit in subtropical and tropical<br />
<strong>America</strong>. Recent mating experiments with several collections<br />
<strong>of</strong> putative L. boryana revealed the presence <strong>of</strong> two intersterility<br />
groups, both well-supported by molecular and morphological<br />
data. Which <strong>of</strong> these biological species was represented<br />
by the name L. boryana led to the examination <strong>of</strong> type<br />
specimens <strong>of</strong> epithets listed by Pegler (1983). Lentinula<br />
raphanica is proposed as the correct name for the nonboryana<br />
intersterility group. A third species, L. aciculospora,<br />
known only from southern Costa Rica, is also discussed here.<br />
Poster<br />
*MATHENY1, P. BRANDON AND KROPP2, BRADLEY R.<br />
'Department <strong>of</strong> Botany, 351330, University <strong>of</strong> Washington,<br />
Seattle, WA 98195-5325 USA, 2Deptartment <strong>of</strong> Biology,<br />
Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-5305. An assess-<br />
ment <strong>of</strong> the Inocybe lanuginosa group and allied species<br />
in North <strong>America</strong>.<br />
A morphological based evaluation <strong>of</strong> the Inocybe lanuginosa<br />
44
group and allied species is presented for North <strong>America</strong>n<br />
taxa. 425 collections from herbaria representing putative taxa<br />
within the group have been studied. 39 collections were<br />
subject to phenetic analysis using two clustering procedures,<br />
UPGMA and Neighbor-Joining. Four North <strong>America</strong>n<br />
species are recognized in the lanuginosa group: I.<br />
leptophylla, I. nodulospora (I. ovatocystis), I. sphagnicola, a<br />
new species, and I. stellatospora (I. longicystis). Taxonomy,<br />
biogeography, phenology and illustrations <strong>of</strong> these species<br />
are provided including two allied species, I.<br />
tahquamenonensis and I. diminuta, and a European taxon, I.<br />
lanuginosa var. alpina. Discussion <strong>of</strong> type species and<br />
nomenclature is also provided. I. stellatospora is found to be<br />
an earlier name for I. longicystis and cannot represent I.<br />
tahquamenonensis. I. nodulospora is conspecific with I.<br />
ovatocystis and holds nomenclatural priority. A key to scaly<br />
nodulose-spored species <strong>of</strong> Inocybe in North <strong>America</strong> is<br />
included. I. sabuletorum is not a synonym <strong>of</strong> any member <strong>of</strong><br />
the I. lanuginosa group and represents a member <strong>of</strong> sect.<br />
Petiginosae. We do not apply the epithet lanuginosa but use<br />
it informally in discussion <strong>of</strong> this group <strong>of</strong> phenetically<br />
similar species. Contributed Presentation<br />
*MATHENY, P. BRANDON, LIU, YAJUAN J.,<br />
AMMIRATI, JOSEPH F., AND HALL, BENJAMIN D.<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Botany, 35 1330, University <strong>of</strong> Washington,<br />
Seattle, WA 98195-5325 USA. Molecular systematics <strong>of</strong><br />
the genus Inocybe (Cortinariaceae, Agaricales).<br />
An investigation <strong>of</strong> the phylogeny <strong>of</strong> the genus Inocybe, a<br />
brown-spored group <strong>of</strong> ectomycorrhizal agarics, was<br />
conducted using two protein-coding nuclear markers (partial<br />
RPB 1 and RPB2 sequences) and nLSU rDNA (25s). A<br />
comparison across the three markers using the same subset<br />
<strong>of</strong> taxa reveals that analyses <strong>of</strong> combined partial RPBl and<br />
RPB2 amino acid sequences, combined exon data and an<br />
RPB 1 intron (intron 2), which is usually 500 bp in length and<br />
unusually GC-rich, provide greater resolution within the<br />
genus Inocybe than does the nLSU rDNA. Combined RPB 1<br />
and RPB2 exonic data support the monophyly <strong>of</strong> three<br />
smooth-spored taxa, I. agglutinata + I. pudica /I. splendens<br />
to the exclusion <strong>of</strong> "boletoid"-spored I. lacera and nodulose-<br />
spored I. praetervisa. Analyses <strong>of</strong> expanded datasets based<br />
on partial RPB 1 exonic regions and the intronic region<br />
examined separately result in more clades with higher<br />
bootstrap values when compared to an expanded dataset <strong>of</strong><br />
nLSU rDNA. Inocybe is a monophyletic group.<br />
Phaeomarasmius, Hebeloma and Galerina are used as<br />
outgroups. Sampling to date within RPBl supports the<br />
monophyly <strong>of</strong> sections Cervicolores, Rimosae, subgenus<br />
Mallocybe and subgenus Inocybe. Subgenus Inosperma is<br />
paraphyletic. Contributed Presentation<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
*MAY, G., BADRANE, H. Dept. Plant Biology, U. Minne-<br />
sota, St. Paul MN 55 108 USA. Extracting functional<br />
information from evolutionary data for mating type genes.<br />
<strong>The</strong> analysis <strong>of</strong> molecular variation at the bl mating type<br />
gene <strong>of</strong> Coprinus cinereus demonstrated that most diver-<br />
gences between different mating type alleles occurred long<br />
ago. We hypothesized that substitutions leading to the<br />
generation <strong>of</strong> different mating type functions should be<br />
located on short internal branches subtending the long<br />
branches which distinguish these alleles. <strong>The</strong> genealogical<br />
data, along with distinguishing hypervariable regions along<br />
the length <strong>of</strong> the gene, were used to identify candidate a.a.<br />
substitutions hypothesized to be responsible for functional<br />
differences. To test this hypothesis, we conducted site-<br />
directed mutagenesis, followed by functional analyses with<br />
cells transformed by mutagenized alleles. We unambiguously<br />
refuted our original hypothesis as none <strong>of</strong> the identified sites<br />
caused a change in mating type function. However, other<br />
single and multiple a.a. substitutions were identified which<br />
altered mating function. <strong>The</strong>se results clearly suggest that<br />
models for both the evolution and function <strong>of</strong> self-recogni-<br />
tion genes are in need <strong>of</strong> revision. We will discuss alternative<br />
models. Symposium Presentation<br />
*'MAY, G., 2VEKEMANS, X., 3SHAW, F. 'Dept. Plant<br />
Biology, U. Mn, St. Paul, MN, 2UnivesitC Libre de Bruxelles,<br />
Belgium, 31nst. Math. Appl., UMn, Minneapolis, MN.<br />
Genealogical analysis <strong>of</strong> mating type genes.<br />
Analysis <strong>of</strong> molecular variation at the bl mating type gene <strong>of</strong><br />
Coprinus cinereus demonstrated that different mating type<br />
alleles at 61 were highly divergent. We hypothesized that<br />
balancing selection retained alleles in natural populations for<br />
extended periods <strong>of</strong> time and led to the accumulation <strong>of</strong><br />
multiple substitutions. We developed a novel method <strong>of</strong><br />
measuring the force <strong>of</strong> balancing selection. <strong>The</strong> genealogy<br />
demonstrated extended terminal branch lengths and short<br />
internal branches similar to those found for several other<br />
self-recognition systems. Because the bl gene is located<br />
within the multigenic A mating type locus, we used models<br />
to describe the impact <strong>of</strong> genes <strong>of</strong> redundant function with<br />
and without recombination on the evolutionary process at bl.<br />
To investigate further the evolutionary dynamics <strong>of</strong> mating<br />
type variation in natural populations and to investigate<br />
possible roles <strong>of</strong> intragenic recombination in generating<br />
variation, we began a demographic and molecular analysis <strong>of</strong><br />
the b mating locus <strong>of</strong> the plant pathogen, Ustilago maydis.<br />
We report on the importance <strong>of</strong> recombination and geo-<br />
graphic subdivision for variation at the b mating locus.<br />
Symposium Presentation
MCDANTEL, DENNIS P. AND *ROBERSON, ROBERT W.<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant Biology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ<br />
85287 USA. Cytoplasmic organization in germlings <strong>of</strong><br />
Aspergillus nidulans nudA mutants.<br />
We have used video-enhanced light microscopy,<br />
epifluorescence microscopy, and transmission electron<br />
microscopy (TEM) to examine germlings <strong>of</strong> the temperature<br />
sensitive Aspergillus nidulans nudA mutant to determine the<br />
effects <strong>of</strong> defective cytoplasmic dynein on cytoplasmic<br />
organization. At restrictive temperatures (42 C), germlings<br />
grew more slowly and typically exhibited a curved morphol-<br />
ogy, unlike those grown at permissive temperatures (32 C).<br />
DAPI labeling revealed that the nuclei failed to migrate from<br />
the spore into the growing germ tube (the characteristic<br />
phenotype <strong>of</strong> the mutant), although nuclei were observed in<br />
older germ tubes. Mitochondria1 distribution, as determined<br />
through immun<strong>of</strong>luorescence and TEM, was not affected by<br />
dynein mutation; however, mitochondria commonly con-<br />
tained electron-opaque inclusions <strong>of</strong> unknown composition.<br />
Microtubules were observed in all cytoplasmic regions <strong>of</strong><br />
gerrnlings grown at both permissive and restrictive tempera-<br />
tures. Apical organization in germlings grown at permissive<br />
temperatures varied from a loose aggregation <strong>of</strong> apical<br />
vesicles to a well-organized Spitzenkorper, while the apices<br />
<strong>of</strong> germlings grown at restrictive temperatures did not have a<br />
Spitzenkorper but contained numerous multi-vesicular<br />
bodies. Contributed Presentation<br />
*MCKEMY, JOHN M. AND AMY Y. ROSSMAN. System-<br />
atic Botany and Mycology Laboratory, USDA-ARS,<br />
Beltsville, MD 20705 USA. Molecular systematics <strong>of</strong><br />
Diaporthales inferred from rDNA sequence data.<br />
<strong>The</strong> ascomycete order Diaporthales includes a diverse array<br />
<strong>of</strong> teleomorphs and anamorphs, many <strong>of</strong> which cause<br />
important diseases <strong>of</strong> agricultural crops and trees. At present<br />
53 genera are included in the Diaporthales in North <strong>America</strong>.<br />
Generic concepts are based primarily on stromal and<br />
ascospore characteristics. In order to test the validity <strong>of</strong> these<br />
characteristics in circumscribing genera and to develop a<br />
taxonomic scheme into which anamorph taxa can be placed,<br />
a molecular study analyzing sequences <strong>of</strong> the nuclear large<br />
subunit (LSU) and internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS)<br />
<strong>of</strong> the rDNA was conducted. Preliminary analyses using the<br />
LSU data provide support for the circumscription <strong>of</strong><br />
Diaporthe and its anamorph Phomopsis as a distinct, albeit<br />
very large genus within the Diaporthales. Other genera<br />
including Apiognomonia, Cryptodiaporthe, Melanconis<br />
based on its anamorph Melanconium, Schizoparme, and a<br />
species <strong>of</strong> Discula are also confirmed as members <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Diaporthales. Poster<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
MCPARTLAND, J.M. 53 Washington St. Ext., Middlebury<br />
VT 05753 USA. <strong>The</strong> Cannabis Pathogen Project: report<br />
<strong>of</strong> the fourth 5-year plan.<br />
Host plant-parasitic relationships may <strong>of</strong>fer phylogenetic<br />
clues regarding the host. Many parasites coevolve with their<br />
plant hosts, eventually becoming dependent on single<br />
species. Some fungi show a high degree <strong>of</strong> host specificity<br />
and can serve as "angiosperm taxonomists." We utilized<br />
fungi to address a "family feud"- taxonomists have shuttled<br />
the genus Cannabis between three families, the<br />
Cannabaceae, Moraceae, and Urticaceae. A list <strong>of</strong> all known<br />
Cannabis pathogens was compiled (McPartland et al., 2000,<br />
Hemp Diseases & Pests, CAB1 Publishing, Wallingford,<br />
UK). This list was compared with "representative lists" <strong>of</strong><br />
pathogens for every genus in the Cannabaceae, Moraceae,<br />
and Urticaceae. Representative lists were collated from the<br />
specimen records <strong>of</strong> the US National Fungus Collections,<br />
and the Host-Pathogen database derived from the John<br />
Stevenson <strong>Mycological</strong> Library. We found 52% <strong>of</strong> Cannabis<br />
pathogens also infest Humulus; these two genera comprise<br />
the small Cannabaceae family. Cannabis shared three<br />
obligate pathogens with Urticaceous hosts:<br />
Pseudoperonospora hurnuli, Sphaerotheca rnacularis, and<br />
Leveillula taurica. No obligate pathogens were shared with<br />
Moraceous hosts. <strong>The</strong>se results suggest Cannabis and<br />
Humulus are intimately related, with closer affinities to the<br />
Urticacea than to the Moraceae. <strong>The</strong>se findings have<br />
implications for biocontrol research and host-range studies.<br />
Contributed Presentation<br />
MEYER, SUSAN L. F. USDA ARS Nematology Laboratory,<br />
Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Beltsville, MD<br />
20705-2350 USA. <strong>The</strong> future <strong>of</strong> biocontrol fungi for<br />
nematode management.<br />
Deregistration <strong>of</strong> many chemical nematicides and restrictions<br />
in use <strong>of</strong> some remaining compounds have led to heightened<br />
study <strong>of</strong> biocontrol agents as an alternative to use <strong>of</strong> conven-<br />
tional pesticides. Many microorganisms in field soils are<br />
antagonistic to nematodes, and can even have suppressive<br />
effects on nematode populations. Because <strong>of</strong> the complexity<br />
<strong>of</strong> the soil ecosystem, it is difficult to emulate this suppres-<br />
sion with application <strong>of</strong> biocontrol fungi. Fungi that show<br />
activity against nematode populations in the laboratory and<br />
greenhouse <strong>of</strong>ten demonstrate inconsistent performance in<br />
the field, and finding ways to enhance efficacy <strong>of</strong> biocontrol<br />
fungi has been a major obstacle to development <strong>of</strong> successful<br />
products. Indeed, few biocontrol products have been mar-<br />
keted for management <strong>of</strong> plant-parasitic nematodes. Devel-<br />
opment <strong>of</strong> useful products can be expedited by collabora-<br />
tions that allow for extensive testing and for basic research<br />
on fungus biology. For biocontrol to be successful, antici-<br />
pated pr<strong>of</strong>its should be in line with the results that can<br />
reasonably be obtained from biocontrol products. Addition-<br />
46
ally, biocontrol must be implemented with a range <strong>of</strong><br />
management practices, which may include conventional<br />
chemicals, application <strong>of</strong> active compounds produced by<br />
nematode antagonists, transgenic plants, resistance, and<br />
cultural practices. Symposium Presentation<br />
MIADLIKOWSKA, JOLANTA* AND FRANCOIS<br />
LUTZONI. Department <strong>of</strong> Botany, <strong>The</strong> Field Museum,<br />
Chicago, IL 60605 USA. Coevolution <strong>of</strong> symbiotic associa-<br />
tions within peltigerous lichens (Peltigerineae,<br />
Ascomycota).<br />
<strong>The</strong> common occurrence <strong>of</strong> tri-membered symbiotic associa-<br />
tions in the Peltigerinae <strong>of</strong>fers a unique opportunity for<br />
studying coevolutionary trends among all symbionts in-<br />
volved in lichen symbioses. Based on a phylogenetic study<br />
<strong>of</strong> SSU and LSU nrDNA from the mycobiont and the<br />
cyanobiont found in a broad selection <strong>of</strong> species belonging to<br />
the Peltigerineae, a monophyletic circumscription <strong>of</strong> the<br />
suborder is proposed here. Ancestral symbiotic states (bi-<br />
versus tri-membered symbioses) for peltigerous lichens were<br />
reconstructed using maximum likelihood as the optimization<br />
criterion. In addition, the pattern <strong>of</strong> transmission (horizontal<br />
versus vertical) <strong>of</strong> cyanobacterial lineages during the<br />
evolutionary history <strong>of</strong> the Peltigerineae was investigated.<br />
Contributed Presentation<br />
"MICALES, JESSIE A.', BANIK, MARK T.', NORTON,<br />
KYAH1, GRAHAM, RUSSEL T.2 AND LARSEN,<br />
MICHAEL J.2 'USDA-Forest Service, Forest Products<br />
Laboratory, Madison, WI 53705 USA, 2USDA-Forest<br />
Service, Forestry Sciences Laboratory, Moscow, ID 83843<br />
USA. RFLP-analysis for the identification <strong>of</strong> cultures <strong>of</strong><br />
wood-decay fungi.<br />
Many different morphological features have been used to<br />
identify cultures <strong>of</strong> wood-decay fungi. <strong>The</strong>se include growth<br />
rate, colony texture and color, the production <strong>of</strong> oxidative<br />
enzymes on differential media, and the presence <strong>of</strong> clamps,<br />
conidia, chlamydospores, and other microscopic structures.<br />
Even with this host <strong>of</strong> morphological traits, identification to<br />
species is still difficult and <strong>of</strong>ten speculative. RFLP-analysis<br />
<strong>of</strong> the ITS region is being used to identify genetic markers <strong>of</strong><br />
common wood decay fungi. This technique will allow rapid<br />
screening <strong>of</strong> cultures obtained from woody residues in plots<br />
subjected to four different thinning regimens in the Priest<br />
River Experimental Forest in northern Idaho. Previous<br />
studies in this forest have shown that Gloeophyllum<br />
sepiarium, Postia placenta, Antrodia serialis, and Fomitopsis<br />
pinicola are the most common brown-rot fungi cultured from<br />
forest residues; Acanthophysium lividocaeruleum,<br />
Diplomitoporus linbadii, Phlebia subserialis, and<br />
Cerioporiopsis subvermispora are the most commonly<br />
isolated white rot fungi. Cultures were initially screened for<br />
clamp connections and decay type. RFLP- markers were<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
developed using cultures from the collection <strong>of</strong> the Center<br />
for Forest Mycology Research. <strong>The</strong> successful identification<br />
<strong>of</strong> decay fungi from each plot will be used to monitor decay<br />
progression associated with each thinning regimen. Poster<br />
*MILLER, ANDREW N.12, HUHNDORF, SABINE M.2,<br />
AND LUTZONI, FRANCOIS M.2. 'Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biological<br />
Sciences, University <strong>of</strong> Illinois at Chicago, Chicago IL<br />
60607-7060 USA and 2Dept. <strong>of</strong> Botany, <strong>The</strong> Field Museum,<br />
Chicago IL 60605-2496 USA. <strong>The</strong> use <strong>of</strong> ascomatal wall<br />
morphology in determining phylogenetic relationships in<br />
the Lasiosphaeriaceae (Sordariales, Ascomycetes).<br />
Many genera in the Lasiosphaeriaceae have been based<br />
solely on ascospore morphology without adequately investi-<br />
gating the phylogenetic potential <strong>of</strong> ascomatal wall charac-<br />
ters. A bombardioidpseudo-bombardioid type <strong>of</strong> ascomatal<br />
wall is found in several species distributed among five<br />
genera in the Lasiosphaeriaceae. <strong>The</strong> phylogenetic potential<br />
<strong>of</strong> this unique wall structure was tested by DNA sequencing<br />
<strong>of</strong> the entire internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, 600 bp<br />
<strong>of</strong> the 5i end <strong>of</strong> the nuclear ribosomal large-subunit (LSU),<br />
and 1000 bp <strong>of</strong> the 3i end <strong>of</strong> the nuclear beta-tubulin gene<br />
from taxa representing various wall and ascospore morpholo-<br />
gies. Four taxa, which possess a bombardioidpseudo-<br />
bombardioid wall and represent four <strong>of</strong> the five genera<br />
(Cercophora, Bombardia, Bombardioidea, Podospora), were<br />
included in this study. Maximum parsimony analyses<br />
revealed that these taxa formed a monophyletic group<br />
composed <strong>of</strong> two smaller clades containing two species each.<br />
<strong>The</strong>se species are more closely-related to each other than<br />
they are to other members <strong>of</strong> their own genus indicating that,<br />
at least in these taxa, ascomatal wall morphology is a better<br />
indicator <strong>of</strong> phylogenetic relationships than ascospore<br />
morphology. Contributed Presentation<br />
"MILLER, STEVEN L. ' AND BUYCK, BARTe2 'University<br />
<strong>of</strong> Wyoming and 2Paris Museum <strong>of</strong> Natural History.<br />
Infrageneric taxa in the genus Russula: a comparison<br />
between temperate and paleotropical regions.<br />
Species in the genus Russulaare conspicuous mushroom<br />
elements in temperate and tropical forest and arctic-alpine<br />
ecosystems. <strong>The</strong>y contribute significantly to fungal biomass,<br />
are important dietary elements for many animals and several<br />
species are harvested for human consumption. <strong>The</strong>ir impor-<br />
tance as mycorrhizal symbionts is well documented. <strong>The</strong><br />
number <strong>of</strong> species is large and infrageneric classification<br />
schemes that have been developed are largely regional and<br />
do not work well in other places. Consequently the tax-<br />
onomy <strong>of</strong> Russula is <strong>of</strong>ten a nightmare impeding studies <strong>of</strong><br />
mycorrhizal communities, population biology, and<br />
biodiversity. It is clear that a more tenable system <strong>of</strong><br />
infrageneric classification would dramatically help the<br />
taxonomy <strong>of</strong> Russula. On a recent expedition to Madagascar,<br />
7
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
many <strong>of</strong> the sections <strong>of</strong> Russula described from the point, the course has generated much needed student credit<br />
paleotropics were encountered, allowing a comparison <strong>of</strong> the hours for our department (Plant Pathology) and has provided<br />
infrageneric taxa with those commonly encountered in valuable exposure for both our department and college<br />
temperate region. Morphological characteristics were (Agricultural and Environmental Sciences). In this presentacritically<br />
examined and samples were taken for DNA tion I will describe the topics covered in the course and<br />
extraction and analysis. Information will be presented as part discuss the pros and cons <strong>of</strong> teaching such a course. Sympo<strong>of</strong><br />
an ongoing study <strong>of</strong> the infrageneric classification <strong>of</strong><br />
Russula using morphological and molecular approaches.<br />
sium Presentation<br />
Contributed Presentation *MIYAZAKI, KAZUHIRO.AND AKEMA,TAMIO.<br />
Kurokami 4-1 1-16, Kumarnoto, Kumamoto, JAPAN 860-<br />
"MILLER, STEVEN L.' AND BUYCK, BART.2 'University 0862. Application <strong>of</strong> DNA markers for identification <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>of</strong> Wyoming and 2Paris Museum <strong>of</strong> Natural History. Tax- Trichodem isolates from the wild mushrooms and Japanese<br />
onomy, ecology and molecular systematics <strong>of</strong> annulate mushroom growing houses.<br />
species <strong>of</strong> Russula from Madagascar. Trichoderma Pers. is used as cellulase producing fungus in<br />
<strong>The</strong> annulate species <strong>of</strong> Russula found in the paleotropics many industrial processes and as biocontrol agent on<br />
have held a special fascination for mycologists, especially mycoparasites in agriculture. However, Trichoderma is<br />
those working primarily in temperate regions <strong>of</strong> the world. pathogenic to many edible mushrooms. <strong>The</strong>refore, appropri-<br />
<strong>The</strong>se fungi are <strong>of</strong>ten brightly colored, they have been ate identification and control <strong>of</strong> Trichoderma in mushroom<br />
considered saprotrophic because <strong>of</strong> their habit <strong>of</strong> fruiting far houses is <strong>of</strong> major interest to the mushroom industry. In this<br />
up the trunks <strong>of</strong> trees and lianas, and they possess a cottony study, we analyze 24 isolates <strong>of</strong> Trichoderma, Gliocladium<br />
to membranaceous partial veil or annulus. Largely because and Hypocrea found on wild mushrooms and Japanese<br />
<strong>of</strong> the annulus, these fungi have been placed in their own mushroom growing houses, using DNA markers with<br />
section within Russula. Many species <strong>of</strong> annulate Russulas random amplified polymorphic DNAs (RAPDs), single<br />
were encountered on a recent expedition to Madagascar. strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) and sequence<br />
Ectomycorrhizae were found in association with each analysis <strong>of</strong> internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions. SSCP<br />
species, suggesting that they are symbiotic with the endemic was able to separate most Trichoderma strains into different<br />
trees. Samples <strong>of</strong> both basidiomes and ectomycorrhizae were species aggregates or groups. However, it was not effective<br />
taken for DNA extraction and analysis and a thorough in distinguishing between 7: harzianum and 7: virens. But<br />
molecular investigation to establish both ecological and RAPDs was able to resolve 7: harzianum and I: virens into<br />
phylogenetic relationships is currently underway. Contrib- separate aggregates. We believe that the combination <strong>of</strong><br />
uted Presentation<br />
MIMS, CHARLES W. Dept. Plant Pathology, Univ. Georgia,<br />
SSCP and RAPDs could be suitable for the identification <strong>of</strong><br />
Trichoderma strains. Poster<br />
Athens, GA 30602 USA. Teaching popularized, non- MOMANY, MICHELLE. Department <strong>of</strong> Botany, University<br />
laboratory mycology courses at the undergraduate level. <strong>of</strong> Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 USA. Fungal cell wall<br />
Inspired by the success <strong>of</strong> George Hudler's "Magical domains reorganize during polarity establishment and<br />
growth.<br />
mushrooms, mischievous molds" course taught at Cornell<br />
University, in the Spring <strong>of</strong> 1991 I began teaching a popular- When the uninucleate conidia <strong>of</strong> Aspergillus fumigatus break<br />
ized, junior level, 3 credit hour, non-lab course entitled dormancy they grow isotropically, adding cell wall material<br />
"Mushrooms, molds and man" which was joint listed in uniformly in every direction. By the time <strong>of</strong> the first nuclear<br />
Plant Pathology and Botany. Initial enrollment in the course division, cells have established a polar axis and begin to<br />
totaled 11 students. By the Spring <strong>of</strong> 1998 enrollment grow by apical extension. By the fourth nuclear division, the<br />
reached 70 students. When the university converted to the germlings form septa. We raised monoclonal antibodies<br />
semester system in the Fall <strong>of</strong> 1998 the course was retained against isolated A. fumigatus cell walls. One <strong>of</strong> these<br />
as a 3 credit hour course but the title was changed to "Fungi: antibodies recognizes an epitope that appears to be un-<br />
friends and foes" and the course was listed under Anthropol- masked during polarity establishment, localizing to the<br />
ogy as well as Plant Pathology and Botany. Enrollment in the growing hyphal tip. Another antibody recognizes an epitope<br />
Spring <strong>of</strong> 1999 reached 110 students and maxed out at 150 found in the more mature basal area <strong>of</strong> the germling and not<br />
students (room capacity) this Spring. Judging from student in the growing tip or new branches. <strong>The</strong> localization pattern<br />
comments, the course has been popular because 1) it doesn't <strong>of</strong> these antibodies suggests that the cell wall is made up <strong>of</strong><br />
have a lab, 2) it can be used as an upper level science discrete domains and that these domains reorganize during<br />
elective and 3) it covers a variety <strong>of</strong> interesting topics not development. Symposium Presentation<br />
taught in other courses on campus. From a practical stand-<br />
48
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
MONEY, NICHOLAS P. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Botany, Miami University, ture and moisture requirements by protostelids, their food<br />
Oxford, OH 45056 USA. Functions and evolutionary<br />
origins <strong>of</strong> hyphal walls and turgor pressure.<br />
sources, and dispersers. Poster<br />
<strong>The</strong> study <strong>of</strong> turgor pressure has been muddied by assumptions<br />
and wishful thinking that have led to a mythology that<br />
maintains a tenacious hold upon the imagination <strong>of</strong> cell<br />
*MOZLEY, SHARON AND PORTER, DAVID. Dept. <strong>of</strong><br />
Botany, University <strong>of</strong> Georgia, Athens GA 30602 USA.<br />
Phylogeny <strong>of</strong> endobiotic chytrids.<br />
biologists. Some years ago, however, experiments on the We are studying the phylogenetic position <strong>of</strong> several<br />
hyphae <strong>of</strong> oomycetes challenged these ideas and cast doubt holocarpic, endobiotic chytrids. <strong>The</strong> existing phylogenetic<br />
upon the prevailing models <strong>of</strong> tip growth. <strong>The</strong>se cells tree for Chytridiomycetes, inferred from ssu rDNA sequence<br />
actually grow faster when their pressure is reduced, and the data (James et al., 2000, CJB, in press), does not include any<br />
normal polarized hyphal form can develop in the absence <strong>of</strong> endobiotic forms. In our present study, we examined the<br />
measurable pressure. <strong>The</strong> way in which growth is sustained following endobiotic species: Synchytrium macrosporum,<br />
at low turgor remains unclear (as it does for pressurized Synchytrium decipiens, Rozella allomycis, and Olpidium<br />
hyphae), but experiments suggest that part <strong>of</strong> the mechanism brassicae. Zoospore ultrastructure characteristics suggest a<br />
involves the secretion <strong>of</strong> wall-loosening endoglucanases that Spizellomycetales affinity for Rozella and Olpidium. <strong>The</strong><br />
fashion a very fluid tip wall. Water influx may then expand two species <strong>of</strong> Synchytrium have dramatically different<br />
the modified wall without pressurizing the cytoplasm beyond zoospore ultrastructure and therefore are a good test <strong>of</strong> the<br />
a few tenths <strong>of</strong> an atmosphere. Despite the complexity <strong>of</strong> tip utility <strong>of</strong> zoospore ultrastructure in phylogeny. <strong>The</strong> results <strong>of</strong><br />
growth we can be confident about one major role played by our cladistic analysis using ssu rDNA sequence data from<br />
turgor pressure in fungal biology: it powers invasive growth. these endobiotic chytrids will be discussed. This study is a<br />
New methods allow precise measurement <strong>of</strong> the invasive component <strong>of</strong> the overall chytrid PEET project funded by<br />
forces exerted by single hyphae, and experiments on patho- NSF. Contributed Presentation<br />
gens <strong>of</strong> plants and animals reveal that their biomechanical<br />
behavior plays an important role in disease processes.<br />
Appreciation <strong>of</strong> the significance <strong>of</strong> turgor during invasive<br />
growth allows legitimate speculation about the evolutionary<br />
origins <strong>of</strong> cell walls and the turgid condition. Symposium<br />
Presentation<br />
"MULLANEY, EDWARD J., DALY, CATHERINE B . ,<br />
SETHUMADHAVAN* KANDmy AND ULLAH, A. H. J.<br />
Southern Regional Research Center* Agricultural Research<br />
Service, U.S. Department <strong>of</strong> Agriculture, New Orleans,<br />
Louisiana 70124 USA. Characterization <strong>of</strong> Phytase<br />
Activity in Aspergillus fumigatus isolates.<br />
"MOORE, DONNA L.', SPIEGEL, FREDERICK W.2,<br />
STEPHENSON, STEVEN L.3. I, Department <strong>of</strong> Biology,<br />
Hamilton College, Clinton, New York 13323 USA, 2,<br />
Extracellular phytase from Aspergillusfumigatus isolates<br />
were characterized and their genes cloned and sequenced.<br />
Based on the banding pattern in SDS-PAGE, all phytases<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences, University <strong>of</strong> Arkansas,<br />
Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701 USA ', Department <strong>of</strong> Biology,<br />
Fairmont State College, Fairmont, West Virginia 26554<br />
USA. <strong>The</strong> unfolding biogeography <strong>of</strong> protostelids.<br />
were found to be glycosylated. All enzymes characterized<br />
displayed a lower specific activity for phytic acid and were<br />
less resistant to proteolytic degradation than the Aspergillus<br />
niger phytase that is now commercially available. DNA<br />
Ecological studies in several ecosystems have provided data sequencing established that two isolates had identical<br />
on the microhabitats <strong>of</strong> protostelids. In temperate habitats, deduced amino acid sequences. However, characterization <strong>of</strong><br />
some protostelids exhibit a preference for either the aerial or the enzymes encoded by these two genes revealed differthe<br />
litter microhabitat. In tropical habitats, temperate litter ences in both pH and temperature optimum. This suggests<br />
species are found equally in the litter and aerial microhabi- that differences in pH and temperature optimum in these<br />
tats but temperate aerial species may be rare. In Alaska, most isolates <strong>of</strong> Aspergillus fumigatus may be due in part to subtle<br />
species occur infrequently but at least one temperate litter differences in post-translational modification. Poster<br />
species is commonly encountered in litter. On Macquarie<br />
Island, deep in the Southern Hemisphere, temperate aerial *MU- FAYE AND CECILE BEAUREPAIRE. Departspecies<br />
are ubiquitous and temperate litter species rare. <strong>The</strong> ment <strong>of</strong> Biology9 Memorial University <strong>of</strong> Newfoundland,<br />
story is further complicated by altitude. Protostelids in both ChnadaAlB3X9. Anti-microtubule drugs inhibit<br />
microhabitats along altitude gradients in Hawaii show that nuclear division but not nuclear migration in elongating<br />
temperate aerial species prefer the aerial microhabitat at germ tubes: evidence for redundancy <strong>of</strong> microtubule and<br />
lower altitudes, but as altitude increases, they are more actin function.<br />
abundant in the litter. In Puerto Rico, litter species move <strong>The</strong> discovery <strong>of</strong> motor molecules that interact with both<br />
from the litter to the aerial microhabitat as altitude increases. microtubules and actin point to a previously unsuspected<br />
Factors that may contribute to these trends include tempera- interconnection between these two cytoskeleton systems.<br />
49
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
Earlier studies on the insect-pathogen, Entomophaga ODELL, THOMAS E. USDA Forest Service, 3200 Jefferson<br />
aulicae, showed that microtubule inhibitors affect shape and Way, Corvallis OR 9733 1 USA. A revised assessment <strong>of</strong> the<br />
movement <strong>of</strong> the natural protoplast stage, but have no effect rarity and distributions <strong>of</strong> fungi in the NW Forest Plan.<br />
on conidium germination and germ tube elongation. Because<br />
<strong>of</strong> the importance <strong>of</strong> microtubules in the movement <strong>of</strong> fungal<br />
nuclei, we examined the effect <strong>of</strong> microtubule inhibitors on<br />
migration <strong>of</strong> nuclei during gem tube growth. <strong>The</strong>re was no<br />
significant difference in the distance from the first nucleus to<br />
the germ tube tip in controls and nocodazole or tax01 treated<br />
germ tubes, suggesting that migration is<br />
in germ tubes in the presence <strong>of</strong> microtubule inhibitors. We<br />
questioned the specificity and effectiveness <strong>of</strong> nocodazole in<br />
disrupting microtubules in germ tubes <strong>of</strong> E. aulicae by<br />
looking at its effect on nuclear division and spindle microtubules.<br />
We found significantly more nuclei in germinated<br />
T~~ hundred thirty four uspecies- (some undescribed) were<br />
included in the survey and manage provisions <strong>of</strong> the ~ ~<br />
west F~~~~~ plan. ~ ~ records for ~ these species b reveal ~<br />
that several may be extinct in the region. Historic collecting<br />
<strong>of</strong> the species was biased toward a few ~ ~ parks, and ~<br />
against certain taxonomic groups (e.g. R ~ ~ A regional ~ ~<br />
survey strategy targeting poorly collected areas has been in<br />
use for several years, I will summarize new data on species<br />
rarity and distributions, and discuss the future direction <strong>of</strong><br />
rare fungus surveys in the Pacific Northwest. Symposium<br />
P ~ ~ , ~ ~<br />
~<br />
i<br />
~<br />
h<br />
i<br />
~<br />
~ )<br />
~<br />
-<br />
conidia than in ungerminated conidia or nocodazole-treated O-FOIGHIL, DIARMAID and JOONG-KI. Park Museum<br />
germinated conidia, suggesting that nocodazole can indeed <strong>of</strong> Zoology and Department <strong>of</strong> Biology, University <strong>of</strong><br />
be effective against microtubules in the germ tubes. Thus, we<br />
suggest that E. aulicae may use actin for nuclear migration in<br />
Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1079, U.S.A. Clonal<br />
persistence in the polyploid mollusc Lasaea - inferences<br />
germ tubes (but not protoplasts) when its cytoplasmic from single-copy nuclear gene trees.<br />
microtubules are compromised. Contributed Presentation <strong>The</strong> cosmopolitan intertidal clam genus ksaea is one <strong>of</strong> a<br />
few animal groups which contain asexual lineages that may<br />
NORVELL, LORELEI L. Pacific Northwest Mycology have persisted for an evolutionary significant timespan. This<br />
Service, 6720 NW Skyline, Portland OR USA. Practical reasoning is based on the finding <strong>of</strong> exceptional<br />
mycology in the twenty-first century. mitochondria1 genetic divergence levels between clonal and<br />
Taxonomists emerging from sparkling molecular labs and<br />
ivy-covered halls clutching a mycology degree all too<br />
frequently find themselves ill-equipped to take the world by<br />
sexual lineages and the presence <strong>of</strong> regional clades <strong>of</strong><br />
genetically diverse clones. However, mitochondria1 gene<br />
divergence data yield a estimate <strong>of</strong> clonal<br />
pr<strong>of</strong>itable stom. <strong>The</strong> limited number <strong>of</strong> mycological posts in<br />
universities, government, and commercial labs need not stop<br />
the resourcefully dedicated, however. In the PNW, environmental<br />
monitoring needs mycologists, and those mycologists<br />
must be ready to get dirty, work outside clean labs in less<br />
than pristine habitats, and deal with hard-nosed loggers,<br />
harvesters, sawmill owners, multiple governmerit<br />
agencies, nature clubs, and politicians. Fungal surveys<br />
are now taking place in active logging areas, fresh cuts,<br />
persistence and may considerably overstate their actual<br />
longevity as asexual entities. We tested the hypothesis <strong>of</strong><br />
longevity in polyploid Lasaea lineages by<br />
constructing single-co~~ gene trees for<br />
mOnO~h~letic clades. Tree were largely<br />
consistent with that predicted for long-lived clones:<br />
divergent within-individual allelic sets that resolve into<br />
mOnO~h~letic cladesl each clade<br />
alleles from a variety <strong>of</strong> genetically distinct clonal lineages.<br />
precuts, dog-hair thickets, second growth, and old growth.<br />
What does it take to apply knowledge <strong>of</strong> subtle bruising<br />
reactions and one-micron differences in spore diameter<br />
obtained from scattered foreign publications while straining<br />
a evidence<br />
recombination. Although they do appear to be long-lived,<br />
polyploid Lasaea clones have not been strictly amictic since<br />
their genesis.<br />
to hear the tell-tale whine <strong>of</strong> a fully loaded logging truck<br />
rushing down muddy roads amid the roar <strong>of</strong> chainsaws and<br />
crashing trees as you inch toward the summit in 4-wheel<br />
drive with fogged up windows, crackling shortwave and<br />
beating windshield wipers struggling to clear heavy rain?<br />
Twenty inocybes, thirteen russulas, four hebelomas, two<br />
chanterelles, two lattes, and one phaeocollybia later more<br />
data becomes available. Such is the life <strong>of</strong> contract mycology.<br />
Contributed Presentation<br />
l*OKHUOYA JOHN A., 'ISIKHUEMHEN, OMOANGHE<br />
S. AND 3AKMA EMMANUEL. ID^^^^^^^^ <strong>of</strong> B ~<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Benin, P. M. B. 1154, Benin City, Nigeria<br />
'Kyushu Research Center, FFPRI, MAFF, Kurokami 4-1 1-<br />
16, Kumamoto 860, Japan 3Rubber Research Institute <strong>of</strong><br />
Nigeria, Iyanomo, Benin City, Nigeria. Biology and domestication<br />
studies on the edible and medicinal sclerotium<br />
forming tropical white rot fungus, p~eu,.otus tubemegium<br />
(FG) Sing.<br />
~ ~<br />
50<br />
Pleurotus tuberregium is a tropical white rot fungus that is<br />
widely distributed in Africa and many countries in Asia. Its
multi-purpose use in food and medicine across in Nigeria<br />
and other West African countries and the lack <strong>of</strong> knowledge<br />
<strong>of</strong> its biology led to the attempt to study this fungus. This<br />
paper summarizes the research we have been doing on this<br />
fungus and that reported by others. Field studies showed that<br />
this fungus grows on decaying logs in hardwood forests,<br />
forming the characteristic sclerotia and sporophores. <strong>The</strong><br />
optimum temperature for its growth has been shown to be 35<br />
C. <strong>The</strong> formation <strong>of</strong> a true sclerotium in its life cycle may<br />
not always precede sporophore formation depending on the<br />
substrate, environmental conditions and genetic background<br />
<strong>of</strong> the strain under study. It has also been shown to possess a<br />
tetrapolar breeding pattern, and monokaryons derived from<br />
strains <strong>of</strong> Africa and the Asia Pacific origin are compatible.<br />
Domestication studies have shown that it is possible to grow<br />
and degrade different agro-industrial wastes; and laccase and<br />
manganese dependent peroxidase as the enzymes associated<br />
with lignocellulose degradation. Models for the cultivation<br />
<strong>of</strong> both sclerotia and sporophores <strong>of</strong> this fungus on sawdust<br />
and cereal straws at small and fairly large-scale sites have<br />
been developed and high yielding strains selected for use in<br />
commercial cultivation. Contributed Presentation<br />
*OLSZEWSKI, PETER AND HORGEN, PAUL A. Depart-<br />
ment <strong>of</strong> Botany, University <strong>of</strong> Toronto at Mississauga,<br />
Mississauga, ON, Canada L5L 1C6. Sequence comparisons<br />
<strong>of</strong> the nuclear-encoded mitochondrial RNA polymerase<br />
(RNAP) gene to the mtRNAP encoded by the linear<br />
mitochondrial plasmid pEM and the mitochondrial<br />
pseudogene in Agaricus.<br />
Transcription in mitochondria is mediated by a nuclear-<br />
encoded, single subunit protein homologous to the bacte-<br />
riophage encoded RNA polymerase (RNAP), in contrast to<br />
the eubacterial-like multisubunit RNAP that transcribes<br />
chloroplast genomes. A number <strong>of</strong> fungi and plants have also<br />
been found to contain linear mitochondrial plasmids (Imps),<br />
some <strong>of</strong> which possess open reading frames(0RFs) encoding<br />
the phage-like RNAP. One such ORF is present on an Imp<br />
known as pEM found in a number <strong>of</strong> species <strong>of</strong> the genus,<br />
Agaricus. Furthermore, there is a pseudogene present in the<br />
mitochondrial chromosome in Agaricus with a high degree<br />
<strong>of</strong> sequence similarity to the pEM encoded RNAP. Evidence<br />
supports a hypothesis that pEM is a recently acquired<br />
extrachromosomal fragment, suggesting that the pseudogene<br />
present in the mitochndrial genome might have been a<br />
remnant <strong>of</strong> a once functional gene whose function was<br />
conferred to the nucleus. We have isolated the nuclear<br />
encoded mtRNAP gene from selected isolates <strong>of</strong> Agaricus.<br />
Preliminary analysis indicates that the nuclear-encoded<br />
mtRNAP in Agaricus exhibits greatest sequence similarity at<br />
the amino acid level to RNAPs found in Saccharomyces<br />
cerevisae (72%, e=4e-22), and humans (63%, e=2e-25). In<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
this study, we will do sequence comparisons <strong>of</strong> the nuclear<br />
encoded RNAP from various Agaricus species with the pEM<br />
RNAP gene and the mitochondrial pseudogene. Contributed<br />
Presentation<br />
ORAZE, MICHAEL J. USDA APHIS PPQ CPHST, National<br />
Biological Control Institute, 4700 River Road Unit 5,<br />
Riverdale MD 20737 USA. Regulatory influences on the<br />
future use <strong>of</strong> fungi for biological control.<br />
<strong>The</strong> use <strong>of</strong> fungi for biological control is currently regulated<br />
by multiple government agencies operating under separate<br />
authorities. <strong>The</strong> resulting matrix <strong>of</strong> regulatory systems,<br />
processes, and requirements is complex and changing. An<br />
assessment <strong>of</strong> the past and present regulatory landscapes will<br />
be presented. Trends in science and politics will be used to<br />
predict future regulatory policies. <strong>The</strong> implications <strong>of</strong> these<br />
possible policies on the acquisition, development, and testing<br />
<strong>of</strong> fungi for biological control will be explored. Symposium<br />
Presentation<br />
"OVERTON, BARRIE', SAMUELS G. J.2, AND<br />
STEWART, E. L.' ]Department <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology, Pennsylvania<br />
State University, University Park PA 16802 USA,<br />
2USDA-ARS, SBML, Beltsville MD 20705 USA. Hypocrea<br />
spp. with anamorphs referable to Whoderma sect.<br />
Hypocreanum form a monophyletic group.<br />
Species <strong>of</strong> Hypocrea with acremonium- or verticillium-like<br />
anamorphs referable to Trichoderma sect. Hypocreanum are<br />
unusual in Hypocrea because their conidiophore morphology<br />
differs from the typical Trichoderma phenotype found in H.<br />
rufa, the type. It has been suggested that species in sect.<br />
Hypocreanum share characters that are plesiomorphic and<br />
not indicative <strong>of</strong> a natural relationship. <strong>The</strong> presence <strong>of</strong> a<br />
Trichoderma anamorph and acremonium-like synanamorph<br />
is uncommon in Hypocrea, reported only for H. poronioidea.<br />
Preliminary molecular characterization <strong>of</strong> the ITS1-5.8s-<br />
ITS2 rDNA gene cluster suggests taxa with effuse to<br />
pulvinate stromata and acremonium- and verticillium-like<br />
anamorphs form a monophyletic lineage within the<br />
HypocrealTrichoderma clade. Species included in this study<br />
with acremonium-like anamorphs (excluding H.<br />
poronioidea) are limited to the H. pulvinata clade in which<br />
verticillium-like anamorphs also occur. Characters <strong>of</strong> the<br />
stroma are less informative because some taxa with<br />
acremonium- and verticillium-like anamorphs have stromatal<br />
characteristics that correspond to teleomorph characters <strong>of</strong><br />
Hypocrea spp. with anamorphs referable to Trichoderma<br />
sect. Pachybasium. It is hypothesized that highly reduced<br />
conidiophores and hyaline condia are apomorphic characters<br />
for Trichodenna sect. Hypocreanum. Poster
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
*PADAMSEE, MAHAJABEEN AND MCLAUGHLIN, show potential for examining such matters. We have found<br />
DAVID J. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant Biology, University <strong>of</strong> Minnesota, that ITS sequences, which are <strong>of</strong>ten useful for resolving<br />
St. Paul MN 55108 USA. Subtleties <strong>of</strong> Psathyrellas: species level relationships in fungi, may be more appropriate<br />
distinguishing species. for intraspecific resolution in Cyttaria.Furthermore, se-<br />
Psathyrella cystidiosa and Psarhyrella rhodospora are<br />
endemic to ~i~~~~~~~ and were known only from the type<br />
collections until they were rediscovered in the summer <strong>of</strong><br />
1998. Comparison <strong>of</strong> P cystidiosa with the frequently<br />
reported p olympiana raises the question <strong>of</strong> distinguishing<br />
between these species using primarily cystidial characters.<br />
Type studies and DNA analysis are being used to resolve the<br />
question. Several other specimens <strong>of</strong> Psathyrella collected<br />
during the survey for endemic Minnesota fungi have yielded<br />
interesting biogeographic data. Poster<br />
quences from 28S, a much more conserved marker, are<br />
useful for delimiting interspecific relationships. Perhaps a<br />
reflection <strong>of</strong> its ancient relationship with Noth<strong>of</strong>agus,this<br />
large amount <strong>of</strong> genetic variation in Cyttariamight have<br />
resulted from accelerated molecular evolution associated<br />
with the parasitic habit or from the possible longevity <strong>of</strong> this<br />
lineage <strong>of</strong> fungi. <strong>The</strong> IT3bust fossil record <strong>of</strong> Noth<strong>of</strong>agusand<br />
its intimate relationship with C~ttariashow promise as a<br />
system for testing hypotheses related<br />
coevolution, Southern Hemisphere biogeography, and the<br />
molecular clock. Poster<br />
*PEABODY, ROBERT B.', PEABODY, DIANE COPE2,<br />
AND SICARD, KENNETH M.I. ~ ~ D ~ ~ stonehill i ~ . , ~<br />
College, Easton MA 02357 USA, 2Biology Dept.,<br />
Bridgewater State College, Bridgewater, MA 02325 USA.<br />
Genetic mosaicism in Armillaria gallica.<br />
<strong>The</strong> basidiome stage <strong>of</strong> Armillaria gallica can be a genetic<br />
mosaic. Ten cells isolated from the stipe <strong>of</strong> a single<br />
basidiome in 1986 produced nine different genotypes when<br />
analyzed for variation at six nuclear loci. Four additional<br />
basidiomes collected in 1986 also produced mosaic patterns<br />
when analyzed for variation at a single nuclear (PCR-REP)<br />
locus. one basidiome collected in 1993 was not a genetic<br />
mosaic because fifteen cells isolated from its stipe produced<br />
only one genotype when analyzed for the same six nuclear<br />
loci. Two hundred seventy-four samples collected in the field<br />
between 1981 and 1998 were analyzed for variation at the<br />
PCR-RFLP locus. Samples collected prior to 1988 produced<br />
patterns consistent with the existence <strong>of</strong> mosaicism, but<br />
samples collected after 1988 showed no evidence <strong>of</strong> mossicism.<br />
Preliminary results from growth studies indicate that<br />
different cells isolated from the stipe <strong>of</strong> a single mosaic<br />
basidiome grow at different rates in laboratory culture.<br />
Genetic mosaicism represents a novel mechanism for<br />
partitioning genotypes among the cells <strong>of</strong> a basidiomycete<br />
and has interesting implications for the biology <strong>of</strong> A. gallica.<br />
Contributed Presentation<br />
PETERSON, l ~ STEPHEN ~ W. ~ Microbial Properties Research<br />
Unit, National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research,<br />
U. S.De~artment Agriculture, Agricultural Research<br />
Service, 1815 N. University Street, Peoria, LL 61604-3999<br />
USA. Genetic variation among isolates <strong>of</strong> Aspergillus<br />
tamarii,Aspergillus curlMIS and allatoxin produeingA.<br />
tamarii-like isolates.<br />
Aflatoxin producing isolates <strong>of</strong> A. tamarii were reported for<br />
the first time by Goto et al. Because there are<br />
and mor~hO1ogical differences between aflatoxigenic and<br />
non-aflatoxigenic isolates, relationships were phylogenetitally<br />
analyzed from beta-tubulin, calmodulin, ~~rsolorinic<br />
acid reductasey ITS and partial 28S rDNA gene sequences.<br />
Inferred acid sequences in the protein portions<br />
<strong>of</strong> the beta-tubulin, calmodulin and norsolorinic acid<br />
reductase genes were invariant, but introns from these genes<br />
were highly variable. Parsimony trees based on each protein<br />
coding gene were congruent, and show thatAs?'ergillus<br />
caelatus and A. lamarii, as as aflatoxin producing<br />
isolates <strong>of</strong> A. tamarii, form genetically distinct groups. ITS<br />
and 28s rDNA resolved only some <strong>of</strong> the branches resolved<br />
by the protein genes. <strong>The</strong> PHT showed that the protein gene<br />
Sequences could be combined, and the combined data tree<br />
shows very high support for each branch.<br />
the morphological differences between the aflatoxigenic and<br />
non-aflatoxigenic A. tamarii isolates are small, the genetic<br />
*PETERSON, KRISTIN R. AND PFISTER, DONALD H.<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Organismic & evolution^ Biology and Farlow<br />
divergence is similar to that between A. Javus and A.<br />
parasiticus, and a new species name has been proposed for<br />
Herbarium, Harvard University, Cambridge MA 02138 USA.<br />
Phylogeny <strong>of</strong> Cyttaria(Cyttariales, Ascomycota) inferred<br />
from nuclear ribosomal DNA sequences.<br />
<strong>The</strong> eleven species <strong>of</strong> Cyttariaare obligate parasites <strong>of</strong><br />
Norh<strong>of</strong>agus(Noth<strong>of</strong>agaceae, Fagales), the southem beech.<br />
Although classic hypotheses predict cospeciation between<br />
Cyttariaand Noth<strong>of</strong>agus,they are not supported by morphological<br />
data from Cyttaria.Also, the relationships within<br />
the aflatoxigenic A. tamarii isolates. Poster<br />
*PIRES-ZO'ITARELLI, CARMEN L.A., MLLANEZ,<br />
ADAUTO I. Instituto de Botanica, Secao de Micologia e<br />
Liquenologia, Caixa Postal 4005,01061-970, Sao Paulo,<br />
Brasil. Occurrence <strong>of</strong> Chyt,+diomycota and (,omycota in<br />
the Cubatao region, Sao State, Brazil.<br />
Fifty six (56) taxa <strong>of</strong> zoosporic fungi were isolated, using<br />
Cyttariaand <strong>of</strong> Cyttan'ato other Ascomycota remain unre- baiting techniques, from a highly air-~olluted area (~iver<br />
solved. Our preliminary nuclear ribosomal DNA sequences MOji<br />
52<br />
and the One, preserved area
(River Pil-es Valley), in the municipality <strong>of</strong> cub at,,^, S,,o<br />
Paulo State, Brazil. Nineteen (19) taxa belong to the Phylum<br />
Chytridiomycota and thirty seven (37) to the Phylum<br />
Oomycota. <strong>The</strong> Sorensen index obtained between the<br />
isolated taxa <strong>of</strong> both areas was 67%. Thirty four (34) taxa<br />
were isolated from the water <strong>of</strong> the River Moji Valley and<br />
twenty-four (24) from the River Pil-es Valley. Thirty one<br />
(3 1) taxa were isolated from the soil <strong>of</strong> the River Moji Valley<br />
and thirty three (33) from the River Pil-es Valley. <strong>The</strong><br />
Sorensen index obtained between the isolated taxa <strong>of</strong> both<br />
areas, in the water and in the soil was, 62% and 66%,<br />
respectively. Larger number <strong>of</strong> occurrence <strong>of</strong> zoosporic<br />
fungi, in the water, was verified in River Moji Valley (127)<br />
when compared with the River Pil-es Valley (104). <strong>The</strong> same<br />
situation was found in the soil, with 179 occurences from<br />
the River Moji Valley and 158 from the River Pil-es Valley.<br />
<strong>The</strong> results together with the literature data, allow us to<br />
conclude, that the group <strong>of</strong> zoosporic fungi is tolerant and<br />
adaptable to polluted ecosystems. Poster<br />
*PLA'IT, JAMIE L.', GEISER, DAVID M.2, AND TAYLOR,<br />
JOHN W.I. 'Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant and Microbial Biology, University<br />
<strong>of</strong> California, Berkeley CA 94720 USA, 2Fusarium Research<br />
Center, Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology, <strong>The</strong> Pennsylvania State<br />
University, University Park PA 16802 USA. Population<br />
genetics <strong>of</strong> Aspergillus fumigatus inferred from<br />
microsatellite and protein-coding loci.<br />
Aspergillusfumigatus can be readily isolated from soils and<br />
decaying vegetation. Because this fungus is an opportunistic<br />
human pathogen, understanding its occurrence in the<br />
environment is especially important. We have isolated<br />
Aspergillus from soil in a bamboo planter within a hospital.<br />
Phylogenetic analysis <strong>of</strong> nucleotide sequence data from the<br />
benA beta-tubulin and rodA hydrophobin genes was used to<br />
confirm the identity <strong>of</strong> these isolates. Our ultimate goal is to<br />
gain a better understanding <strong>of</strong> the evolution and population<br />
genetics <strong>of</strong> Aspergillus fumigatus. Previous studies have<br />
shown some other asexual fungi harbor cryptic species and<br />
have recombining population structures. We are using four<br />
rnicrosatellite markers, as well as nucleotide sequence data<br />
from protein-coding genes to help elucidate the population<br />
genetics <strong>of</strong> this lineage. We are also searching for additional<br />
microsatellite loci to ultimately improve hypotheses <strong>of</strong><br />
genetic differentiation. Results from analyses <strong>of</strong> these<br />
various markers will be discussed. Contributed Presentation<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
agarics or sometimes also on bark. Approximately the same<br />
number <strong>of</strong> Cladobotryum species for which no teleomorph is<br />
known are apparently closely related to these pleomorphic<br />
Hypomyces species. Tho groups, each comprising pleomor-<br />
phic and anamorphic species, are recognized by the pigmen-<br />
tation <strong>of</strong> colonies, viz. (1) bright yellow and orange colors<br />
(skyrin) (2) red and purple colors (aur<strong>of</strong>usarin). Perithecia<br />
and the subiculum <strong>of</strong> these species turn dark violet in<br />
aqueous KOH. <strong>The</strong> rest <strong>of</strong> the species lack bright pigments<br />
and the KOH reaction with colours <strong>of</strong> perithecia and colonies<br />
ranging from amber or peach to pale yellow or brown. Apart<br />
from pigmentation, mostly only ascospore characters have<br />
been used in keys. Our studies show that for species recogni-<br />
tion characteristic anamorphs are more informative than<br />
ascospore measurements, the range <strong>of</strong> which <strong>of</strong>ten overlaps<br />
among species. In phylogenetic analyses <strong>of</strong> LSU and ITS<br />
sequences <strong>of</strong> the rDNA both groups <strong>of</strong> KOH-positive species<br />
appear monophyletic but the KOH-negative species do not.<br />
Molecular data are shown to aid in the delimitation <strong>of</strong><br />
species, including establishing new connections between<br />
teleomorphs and their anamorphs, which were earlier<br />
considered to represent different species. Poster<br />
*POLISHOOK, JON' , MONCALVO, JEAN-MARC2,<br />
VILGALYS, RYTAS2, BILLS, GERALD '. INatural<br />
Products Drug Discovery, Merck Research Laboratories,<br />
Rahway, NJ 07065 USA, 2Dept. <strong>of</strong> Botany, Duke University,<br />
Durham, NC 27708 USA. Diversity and distribution <strong>of</strong><br />
saprobic cord-forming basidiomycetes in two patches <strong>of</strong><br />
forest litter.<br />
We have estimated the diversity <strong>of</strong> culturable, litter-decom-<br />
posing basidiomycetes in forest litter independent <strong>of</strong> fruiting<br />
bodies by using ITS and large subunit rDNA sequence data<br />
for identification. All unconsolidated forest litter (partially-<br />
decomposed leaves, twigs and cones) was collected during<br />
the early spring in northern New Jersey from two, 1 m2,<br />
quadrats (1 mixed hardwood and 1 primarily hemlock). Fifty<br />
(50) moist chambers (deep-dish petri plates) were prepared<br />
and incubated at 18 C for up to 8 weeks. Mycelial cords and<br />
hyphae were transferred to selective media. Isolates were<br />
grouped according to gross morphology. In all, 84 strains,<br />
representing 24 cultural types, were recovered from the 2<br />
plots. Using ITS and 28s large subunit rDNA sequence data,<br />
we attempted to identify and determine the diversity <strong>of</strong> our<br />
isolates. Comparison <strong>of</strong> sequences to a 28s r DNA database<br />
resulted in 17 distinct groupings. Mycena sp. was the<br />
*'OLDMAA9 ICADR1 AND GARx J' Pennsyl- dominant <strong>of</strong> 8 species from the hemlock site, while a species<br />
vania State and USDA-ARS, 'ysternatic<br />
most closely related to the Gymnopus - Rhodoco[lybia clade<br />
& Lab, MD 20705 USA. and a species designated as a Homobasidiomycete were the<br />
<strong>of</strong> Hypomyces species that have Cladobotryum<br />
anamorphs.<br />
most common <strong>of</strong> the 9 species recovered from the mixed<br />
hardwood stand. Only 1 species, Phanerochaeta sp., was<br />
Twenty one species <strong>of</strong> Hypomyces have Cladobotryum isolated at both sites. Comparisons using ITS data was<br />
anamorphs and grow on basidiomata <strong>of</strong> aphyllophores and inconclusive. Contributed Presentation
"POSADA, DAVID AND CRANDALL, KEITH A. Dept. <strong>of</strong><br />
Zoology, Brigham Young University, Provo UT 84602 USA.<br />
<strong>The</strong> dectection <strong>of</strong> recombination from DNA sequences<br />
and its impact in phylogenetics.<br />
A fundamental assumption in phylogeny reconstruction is<br />
that there is only one history underlying the set <strong>of</strong> sequences<br />
under study. However, different regions <strong>of</strong> the gene under<br />
study can have different evolutionary histories due to<br />
reticulate evolution caused by recombination, gene conver-<br />
sion or horizontal transfer. Traditional methods <strong>of</strong> phyloge-<br />
netic reconstruction simply ignore recombination, and the<br />
impact <strong>of</strong> recombination on the different phylogenetic<br />
estimation algorithms is unknown. We propose to character-<br />
ize, using computer simulation, the performance <strong>of</strong> different<br />
phylogenetic methods when recombination has occurred. A<br />
different problem is the establishment <strong>of</strong> the presence <strong>of</strong><br />
recombination in real data sets. Numerous methods have<br />
been developed to test for the occurrence <strong>of</strong> reticulate<br />
evolution from a set <strong>of</strong> aligned DNA sequences, and to<br />
determine the bounds <strong>of</strong> these events. Unfortunately, very<br />
little is known about the relative strengths and weaknesses <strong>of</strong><br />
these methods. Computer simulation will be used to charac-<br />
terize the performance <strong>of</strong> different methods for detecting<br />
recombination. Symposium Presentation<br />
"REDHEAD, S.A.', VILGALYS, R.2 AND MONCALVO, J-<br />
M.2. ISyst. Mycol. & Bot., ECORC, Agriculture & Agri-<br />
Food Canada, Ottawa, Ont., Canada, KIA OC6, 2Dept.<br />
Botany, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708 USA. Molecu-<br />
lar fungal systematics - surfing the wave <strong>of</strong> the future or<br />
drowning in the nasty undertow?<br />
Attempts to make biological and systematic sense <strong>of</strong> newly<br />
recognized monophyletic clades are taxing mycologists<br />
(botanists, zoologists, stramenopilists, etc) to the maximum.<br />
Nowhere are the new relationships more unsettling than<br />
among the macr<strong>of</strong>ungi where traditional taxonomy is<br />
literally being turned inside-out, upside-down and back-to-<br />
front. Exciting as it all is, is it leading us into chaos? Should<br />
we give up, change to a phylocode, ignore it all, or charge<br />
ahead? Come hear what happens when you read the mol-<br />
ecules, believe the results, and follow the repercussion trail<br />
to its logical taxonomic and nomenclatural conclusion.<br />
Surrealistically, not only are new taxa required but new life<br />
is breathed into long dead names raised from the crypt, a<br />
place where one must go after seeing the future. It is possible<br />
to resolve the systematics, but we may not recognize or like<br />
what we see. On the other hand, when the answers are<br />
revealed, they do make sense in the most surprising ways.<br />
We will use Coprinus as one example where bull dung and<br />
Bulliard both have relevance. Contributed Presentation<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
REEB, VALERIE C.', ROUX, CLAUDE2, AND LUTZONI,<br />
FRANCOIS M.3. IUniversity <strong>of</strong> Illinois at Chicago (MIC<br />
066), Chicago, IL 60607 USA, Faculte des Sciences et<br />
Techniques de St-Jerome, Marseille, France, <strong>The</strong> Field<br />
Museum (Botany), Chicago, IL 60605 USA. A phylogenetic<br />
study <strong>of</strong> the Acarospora and Acarosporaceae (lichenforming<br />
ascomycetes) and their position within the<br />
ascomycetes.<br />
<strong>The</strong> genus Acarospora and the family Acarosporaceae are<br />
among the most complex and poorly known lichen-forming<br />
ascomycetes. Cryptolecanorine apothecia and multiple postmeiotic<br />
mitoses resulting in polyspory are features that<br />
characterize the family. Because many characters are cryptic<br />
or are highly variable within Acarosporaceae, its classification<br />
at almost all levels (species to order) is very unstable.<br />
Preliminary DNA sequence data revealed that Acarospora is<br />
among the basal members <strong>of</strong> the "Lecanoromycotina". This<br />
basal phylogenetic position renders it <strong>of</strong> particular importance<br />
for understanding the evolution <strong>of</strong> the majority <strong>of</strong><br />
lichenized ascomycetes. We will report on results from<br />
phylogenetic analyses <strong>of</strong> SSU nrDNA, LSU nrDNA, and ITS<br />
sequence data and present evidence for a re-circumscription<br />
<strong>of</strong> Acarospora. We will test for monophyly <strong>of</strong> the yellow<br />
(subgenus Xanthothallia) and brown (subgenus<br />
Phaeothallia) Acarospora and suggest approaches for<br />
achieving a new and stable classification for Acarosporaceae.<br />
Contributed Presentation<br />
*ROBBINS, MARK C., RUCH, DONALD G., AND<br />
GILMORE, MARTIN. Biology Dept., Ball State University,<br />
Muncie IN 47306 USA. Population variation in Pilobolus<br />
kleinii as determined by amplified fragment polymorphism<br />
(AFLP) fingerprinting.<br />
<strong>The</strong> family Pilobolaceae contains three genera which have<br />
been postulated to form a natural group. Species within the<br />
family are classified primarily by morphological characters<br />
and delineation <strong>of</strong> species within the genus Pilobolus, the<br />
largest genus, is based on morphological characters that are<br />
variable and overlapping, and thus unreliable. Taxonomy<br />
within the genus is further complicated as most species<br />
rarely reproduce sexually, thus eliminating zygospore<br />
characteristics. In the absence <strong>of</strong> many derived morphological<br />
and biochemical characters, other more accurate means<br />
on which to base taxonomic decisions are needed. <strong>The</strong> DNA<br />
fingerprinting technique know as AFLP was used to ascertain<br />
the variance within Pilobolus kleinii. <strong>The</strong> results <strong>of</strong> the study,<br />
using three different primer combinations, will be presented.<br />
Contributed Presentation
*ROBERSON, ROBERT W., ARONSON, JEROME M.,<br />
FISHER, KAREN E., LOWRY, DAVID S., MCDANIEL,<br />
DENNIS P., AND MONTOYA, YNES. Department <strong>of</strong> Plant<br />
Biology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-1601<br />
USA. Roles <strong>of</strong> fungal tubulins during Allomyces morpho-<br />
genesis.<br />
<strong>The</strong> asexual thallus <strong>of</strong> Allomyces macrogynus progresses<br />
through significant morphological stages during its develop-<br />
ment, e.g., zoospore encystment, cyst germination, hyphal<br />
growth, sporangial development, zoospore formation. This<br />
study utilizes light and electron microcopy to consider these<br />
morphological milestones relative to the organization and<br />
function <strong>of</strong> the tubulin cytoskeleton. Of particular interest is<br />
Spitzenkorper behavior during cyst germination, hyphal<br />
growth, and branch formation. <strong>The</strong> role <strong>of</strong> the Spitzenyrper<br />
in cell growth and morphogenesis has long been enigmatic.<br />
As a microtubule organizing center, the Allomyces<br />
Spitzenkorper is directly involved in regulating the nucle-<br />
ation and distribution <strong>of</strong> cytoplasmic microtubules (MTs)<br />
and thus, specific cytoplasmic functions during growth and<br />
morphogenesis. Analysis <strong>of</strong> the tubulin cytoskeleton during<br />
zoosporogenesis has revealed that MTs and gamma-tubulin<br />
progress through three distinct stages <strong>of</strong> cytoplasmic<br />
organization. Furthermore, MTs are directly involved in<br />
maintaining nuclear position but not nuclear migration or<br />
cleavage element alignment. <strong>The</strong>se observations will form<br />
the basis for discussion <strong>of</strong> the roles <strong>of</strong> tubulins in fungal<br />
morphogenesis. Symposium Presentation<br />
*ROBERTS, KATHY A., LINDSEY, REBECCA, AND<br />
MOMANY, MICHELLE. Department <strong>of</strong> Botany, University<br />
<strong>of</strong> Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 USA. Characterization <strong>of</strong> a<br />
cell wall epitope in Apergillus fumigatus.<br />
Monoclonal antibodies have been raised against isolated<br />
Aspergillus fumigatus cell walls. Several <strong>of</strong> these antibodies<br />
are <strong>of</strong> interest due to their localization to distinct areas <strong>of</strong> the<br />
growing hypha. One antibody in particular, 16C4, localizes<br />
exclusively to the growing tip <strong>of</strong> the hypha and seems to<br />
correlate with polarity establishment in the fungus. <strong>The</strong><br />
epitope has been determined to be proteinaceous. Further<br />
characterization <strong>of</strong> the 16C4 epitope and purification <strong>of</strong> the<br />
protein by immunoaffinity chromatography are underway.<br />
Poster<br />
*ROCHA, JOSE DE RIBAMAR S., MILANEZ, ADAUTO<br />
I., PIRES-ZOTTARELLI, CARMEN L.A. Secao de<br />
Micologia e Liquenologia, Instituto de Botanica, Caixa<br />
Postal 4005,01061-970 Sao Paulo, Brasil. Species <strong>of</strong> the<br />
genus Pythium Pringsheim (Peronosporales) in the<br />
cerrado area <strong>of</strong> the Parque Nacional de Sete Cidades,<br />
Piaui State, Brazil.<br />
Soil and water samples collected every three months, from<br />
May 1998 through February 2000, in areas <strong>of</strong> cerrado<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
vegetation in the Parque Nacional de Sete Cidades, ~iaui,<br />
Brazil, and baited with cellulosic, keratinous and chitinous<br />
substrates and Sorghum sp seeds were studied concerning the<br />
biodiversity <strong>of</strong> some groups <strong>of</strong> Strarnenopila. Among the<br />
taxa isolated 15 belong to the genus Pythium Pringsheim and<br />
have been identified: I? echinulatum Matthews, I?<br />
mamillatum Meurs, I? middletonii Sparrow, I? perlexum<br />
Kouyeas & <strong>The</strong>ohari, l? rostratum Buttler, I? ultimum Trow<br />
var. ultimum and an isolate belonging to the T Group and<br />
another one very close to l? palingenes Drechsler is under<br />
study. I? perplexum and l? echinulatum are first records for<br />
Brazil and all taxa are new to the State <strong>of</strong> ~iaui. l?<br />
mamillatum and I? rostratum have been mentioned in the<br />
Brazilian literature associated to plant diseases. Poster<br />
ROGERS, SCOTT 0.'. MA, LI-JUN I, CATRANIS,<br />
CATHY1, ZHOU, SHUANG1, AND STARMER, W.T.2<br />
IEnvironmental and Forest Biology, SUNY College <strong>of</strong><br />
Environmental Science and Forestry, 1 Forestry Drive,<br />
Syracuse, NY 13210 USA, 2Biology Department, Syracuse<br />
University, Syracuse, NY 13244 USA. Ancient<br />
Microorganims in Arctic and Antarctic Ice.<br />
Water ice is a matrix that protects microorganisms and their<br />
biomolecules from degradative processes. Thus, glaciers and<br />
ice fields contain relatively high concentrations <strong>of</strong> organisms<br />
andlor their nucleic acids that have been preserved for up to<br />
several million years. We have isolated hunderds <strong>of</strong> fungi<br />
from Greenland and Antarctica ice cores that ranged from<br />
500 to over 400,000 years old. We have determined the DNA<br />
sequences <strong>of</strong> the ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer<br />
and small subunit regions for approximately 10% <strong>of</strong> these<br />
isolates. In addition, the same regions were amplified using<br />
PCR directly from ice meltwater. <strong>The</strong>se amplified segments<br />
were also sequenced. All <strong>of</strong> the resulting sequences were<br />
used in searches for homologies with those on GenBank, and<br />
were subjected to phylogenetic analyses. While many appear<br />
to be closely related to species <strong>of</strong> contemporary fungi,<br />
several showed no affinities for any fungal taxa currently on<br />
GenBank. Most <strong>of</strong> the sequences group with the<br />
Euascomycetes, although a few group with the<br />
Hemiascomycetes and Basidiomycetes. Contributed Presentation<br />
"ROSEWICH, U. LIANE1, PETTWAY, RODNEY E.',<br />
KATAN, TALMA2. AND KISTLER, H. CORBY1. 'USDAI<br />
ARS Cereal Disease Laboratory, University <strong>of</strong> Minnesota,<br />
St. Paul, MN USA, 2Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel.<br />
Population genetic characterization <strong>of</strong> Fusarium<br />
oxysporumj sp. lycopersici and its probable place <strong>of</strong><br />
origin.<br />
Isolates <strong>of</strong> the fungal wilt pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f.<br />
sp. lycopersici, predominantly from Florida and southwestem<br />
Georgia were analyzed using nuclear RFLPs and
vegetative compatibility grouping (VCG). <strong>The</strong> 121 isolates<br />
from commercial production fields belonged exclusively to<br />
VCG 0033, which was first described and characterized by<br />
Marlatt et a1 in 1996 for isolates from northern Florida,<br />
Arkansas and North Carolina. This study demonstrates that<br />
this VCG is also widespread in central and southern Florida,<br />
in addition to southwestern Georgia. VCG 0033 also was<br />
found to be present in Puerto Rico. Population genetic and<br />
phylogenetic analyses <strong>of</strong> 121 isolates indicated that genetic<br />
diversity and diversification among VCG 0033 isolates was<br />
by far the highest in Manatee County, Florida suggesting it to<br />
be the probable origin <strong>of</strong> this relatively new VCG. Virulence<br />
tests characterized most isolates as race 3, though some<br />
isolates showed generally low pathogenicity. <strong>The</strong> most<br />
common VCG 0030 was not identified in our collection. This<br />
result was surprising as isolates <strong>of</strong> Fusarium oxysporum f.<br />
sp. lycopersici from Florida, isolated prior to 1990, were<br />
predominantly VCG 0030 (or associated). This would<br />
suggest that VCG 0033 has replaced VCG 0030 in recent<br />
years in most tomato growing regions <strong>of</strong> Florida and<br />
southwestern Georgia. Contributed Presentation<br />
*ROSSMAN, AMY Y. AND MCKEMY, JOHN M. Systematic<br />
Botany and Mycology Laboratory, USDA-ARS,<br />
Beltsville, MD 20705 USA. Molecular systematics <strong>of</strong> the<br />
anamorph genus Myrothecium (Bionectriaceae,<br />
Hypocreales).<br />
<strong>The</strong> genus Myrothecium is characterized primarily by<br />
sporodochial fructifications with hyaline setae and green,<br />
non-septate conidia. While the type species, M. inundatum is<br />
fungicolous on Russula, most species are plant-associated,<br />
important either as pathogens <strong>of</strong> agricultural crops or as<br />
biological control agents <strong>of</strong> noxious weeds. One isolate <strong>of</strong> M.<br />
verrucaria is currently being tested for control <strong>of</strong> leafy<br />
spurge in the western United States. Two segregate genera,<br />
Xerpicula and Xerpiculopsis, are based on species <strong>of</strong><br />
Myrothecium having characteristic conidiomatal setae and<br />
excipular elements. Sequences <strong>of</strong> both the ITS region and<br />
nuclear large subunit <strong>of</strong> the rDNA were used to determine<br />
relationships among nine species <strong>of</strong> Myrothecium as well as<br />
their relationship to several genera hypothesized to be related<br />
to Myrothecium. Preliminary data suggest that M. cinctum<br />
and M. striatosporum are synonyms and that M. inundatum<br />
is closely related to several anamorph genera that differ from<br />
Myrothecium in conidial morphology. Poster<br />
*SACADURA, NUNO, T. AND SAVILLE, BARRY J.<br />
Botany Department, University <strong>of</strong> Toronto at Mississauga,<br />
Mississauga, ON, Canada L5L 1C6. Isolation <strong>of</strong> Ustilago<br />
maydis genes by touchdown and gradient PCR using<br />
degenerate primers.<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
model organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae, several meiosis-<br />
specific regulatory proteins are known to have homologues<br />
in other organisms, from fission yeast to mammals. Degener-<br />
ate primers were designed from highly conserved regions <strong>of</strong><br />
the S. cerevisiae meiosis proteins SPS 1, RIM 11 and MCK1.<br />
Using Touchdown PCR single genomic fragments were<br />
amplified from Ustilago maydis DNA with the RIM1 1 and<br />
the MCKl derived primers. Using Gradient PCR and a hot<br />
start enzyme two genomic fragment were amplified with the<br />
SPSl derived primers. Sequence determination and analysis<br />
revealed that the U. maydis products amplified with the<br />
RIM1 1 and MCKl derived primers show sequence similarity<br />
to the corresponding S. cerevisiae genes as well as to other<br />
genes belonging to the glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3)<br />
family <strong>of</strong> protein-serine kinases. One <strong>of</strong> the U. maydis<br />
products amplified with the SPSl derived primers shows<br />
sequence similarity to the STE20 serinelthreonine protein<br />
kinase family and the other to a MAP kinase. Southern<br />
hybridization to U. maydis genornic DNA suggests the<br />
presence <strong>of</strong> a single gene for each <strong>of</strong> the PCR products.<br />
Progress in characterization <strong>of</strong> these U. maydis genes will be<br />
presented. Poster<br />
*SAENZ, GREGORY S.', POWELL, AMY J.',<br />
JACOBSON, DAVID J.', AND DONALD 0. NATVIG1.<br />
'Department <strong>of</strong> Biology, University <strong>of</strong> New Mexico,<br />
Albuquerque, NM, 87 13 1 USA, 2Department <strong>of</strong> Biological<br />
Sciences, Stanford University, Standford, CA, 94305 USA.<br />
Heterokaryon incompatibility function is potentially at<br />
odds with outcrossing in Neurospora tetrasperma.<br />
<strong>The</strong> pseudohomothallic species N, tetrasperma occurs<br />
naturally as a mating type heterokaryon. Although adapted<br />
for selfing, N. tetrasperma possesses mechanisms for<br />
outcrossing that can potentially combine incompatible<br />
heterokaryon (het) incompatibility alleles into a single<br />
heterokaryon. Laboratory outcrosses <strong>of</strong> diverse N.<br />
tetrasperma isolates, result in sexually dysfunctional<br />
progeny; in certain instances, this dysfunction is due to the<br />
presence <strong>of</strong> different functional her-c alleles (het-cOR & het-<br />
cPA) within a single heterokaryon. However, allelic diversity<br />
at the het-c locus is maintained in N. tetrasperma in both<br />
global and local populations. Allelic variation at het-c<br />
indicates that N. tetrasperma outcrosses. Futhermore, gene<br />
tree topologies from two other unlinked loci, nit-3 and frq,<br />
are incongruent with the het-c gene tree, further substantiat-<br />
ing that N. tetraspemza outcrosses in nature. Selection has<br />
maintained her-c variation in N. tetrasperma populations to<br />
provide vegetative individuals with selflnon-self recognition.<br />
We are investigating whether the maintenance <strong>of</strong> het allelic<br />
variation extends beyond her-c to a second closely linked het<br />
locus. her-6/un-24. If different her-6/un-24 functional alleles<br />
<strong>The</strong> process <strong>of</strong> meiosis in sexually reproducing organisms is are present, outcrossing experiments will be used to test<br />
highly conserved. It is therefore expected that proteins whether distinct allele combinations also produce sexual<br />
controlling this process would also be conserved. In the dysfunction, as exemplfied in our het-c studies. Poster<br />
56
*SCHMIT, JOHN PAUL', MUELLER, GREOGRY M.',<br />
HUANG, YONGING2, LEACOCK, PATRICK R.', MATA,<br />
JUAN LUIS3, WU, QIUXIN'. ' Dept. <strong>of</strong> Botany, <strong>The</strong> Field<br />
Museum, Chicago, IL 60605 USA, Institute <strong>of</strong> Microbiol-<br />
ogy, Bejing, China, Univeristy <strong>of</strong> Tennesse, Knoxville TN<br />
37996 USA. A meta-analysis <strong>of</strong> macr<strong>of</strong>ungal diversity<br />
studies.<br />
A meta-analysis was performed on plot-based studies that<br />
measure the diversity <strong>of</strong> both macr<strong>of</strong>ungi and trees. In total,<br />
15 published studies totaling 120 plots, with data from North<br />
<strong>America</strong>n and Europe were considered. Additionally, the last<br />
four co-authors contributed 4 unpublished studies totaling 20<br />
plots, with data from China, Costa Rica and Minnesota. Two<br />
analyses were performed on the data. <strong>The</strong> first analysis<br />
determined that while plots contained more macr<strong>of</strong>ungi than<br />
trees, the macr<strong>of</strong>ungi were neither more nor less widely<br />
distributed than tree species. This result lends support to the<br />
hypothesis that compared to plants; fungi have a much<br />
higher worldwide species diversity. <strong>The</strong> second analysis<br />
looked at the effect <strong>of</strong> sampling effort (plot size, number <strong>of</strong><br />
years sampled, number <strong>of</strong> visits), tree diversity (number <strong>of</strong><br />
tree species present, number <strong>of</strong> ectomycorrhizal species<br />
present, and the type <strong>of</strong> tree present - conifers vs. hardwoods)<br />
as well as latitude on the number <strong>of</strong> macr<strong>of</strong>ungal<br />
species present in the plot. Unsurprisingly, sampling effort<br />
was found to have a large effect on the number <strong>of</strong> species<br />
found on the plots. Diversity <strong>of</strong> tree species had a fairly<br />
small impact on the number <strong>of</strong> fungal species present.<br />
Symposium . Presentation<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
*SHADWICK, JOHN D. AND SPIEGEL, F. W. Dept. <strong>of</strong><br />
Biological Sciences, University <strong>of</strong> Arkansas, Fayetteville AR<br />
72701 USA. A standardized method for sampling<br />
protostelids using filter paper.<br />
Standardized methods for studying colonization <strong>of</strong> substrates<br />
by protostelids require placing sterile substrates into leaf-<br />
litter. A method exists in which the sterilized substrates are<br />
pieces <strong>of</strong> straw, but it has certain limitations. A new method<br />
uses filter paper for studying colonization <strong>of</strong> substrates.<br />
Filter paper strips were soaked in different concentrations <strong>of</strong><br />
yeast extract solutions. Sterilized papers were anchored in<br />
leaf litter. Papers were collected periodically for plating.<br />
Protostelids were observed on plates. Use <strong>of</strong> filter papers has<br />
several advantages over use <strong>of</strong> plant substrates. One may<br />
modify nutrient quality (C:N ratio) <strong>of</strong> paper to study differ-<br />
ences in substrate colonization. Due to flatness <strong>of</strong> paper high<br />
power objectives may be used while viewing plates without<br />
danger <strong>of</strong> damaging lenses by contacting the substrate.<br />
Flatness <strong>of</strong> paper therefore allows extent <strong>of</strong> colonies to be<br />
resolved at very high levels. This method should allow for<br />
greater understanding <strong>of</strong> protostelid colonization <strong>of</strong> sub-<br />
strates. Poster<br />
SHEN, QING AND ROYSE, DANIEL J. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant<br />
Pathpology, <strong>The</strong> Pennsylvania State University, University<br />
Park, PA 16802, USA. Effects <strong>of</strong> germplasm on mushroom<br />
growth, biological efficiency, and yield <strong>of</strong> maitake.<br />
*SEIDL, MICHELLE', LIU, YAJUAN1, ROGERS,<br />
SCOTT2, QUIST, DAVID3, AND AMMIRATI, JOE'.<br />
'Department <strong>of</strong> Botany, University <strong>of</strong> Washington, Seattle,<br />
WA 98195 USA, 2Faculty <strong>of</strong> Environmental and Forest<br />
Biology, College <strong>of</strong> Environmental Science and Forestry, 1<br />
Forestry Drive, Syracuse, NY 132 10 USA, 3Ecosystem<br />
Sciences-ESPM, University <strong>of</strong> California, 15 1 Hilgard Hall,<br />
Berkeley, CA 94720 USA. Another view <strong>of</strong> the genus<br />
Cortinarius.<br />
Cortinarius (Cortinariaceae, Agaricales), a large, widely<br />
Maitake production and consumption is increasing rapidly in<br />
the United States (up 38% last year). Commercial growers<br />
are searching for strains with improved yield and quality<br />
characteristics. To assist with this search, five genotypes <strong>of</strong><br />
Grifola frondosa (WC659, WC828, WC834, WC835,<br />
WC836) were evaluated for biological efficiency (BE), yield,<br />
quality (shape and color) and time to primordium formation<br />
and harvest. Significant differences among lines were found<br />
for these parameters when mushroom were produced on a<br />
nutrient supplemented sawdust substrate. Two strains<br />
(WC828 and WC836) formed uniform, gray basidiomes,<br />
while basidiomes <strong>of</strong> WC 836 were darker in color. Strain<br />
WC828 was found to have the most consistent and highest<br />
distributed, ectomycorrhizal mushroom genus, traditionally<br />
has been divided into a number <strong>of</strong> subgenera. Its large size<br />
and diversity together with repeated patterns <strong>of</strong> convergent<br />
and parallel characters have made classification <strong>of</strong> species<br />
extremely difficult. Nucleotide sequences <strong>of</strong> ribosomal DNA<br />
5.8s and internal transcribed spacers were used to investigate<br />
the phylogenetic relationships among species <strong>of</strong> Cortinarius.<br />
Sequence data from 48 specimens representing 33 species<br />
were analyzed. <strong>The</strong> subgenera Cortinarius, Dermocybe, and<br />
Telamonia are monophyletic, while the subgenera kprocybe,<br />
Sericeocybe, Phlegmacium, and Myxacium appear to be<br />
polyphyletic. Implications for reorganization <strong>of</strong> traditional<br />
yield (354g/kg dry substrate; 35.4% biological efficiency)<br />
with the shortest time to primordium formation (4-5 weeks)<br />
and fruiting (8-10 weeks). For continued growth <strong>of</strong> the<br />
commercial industry, efforts directed toward improving<br />
biological efficiency, yield, quality, and reduced time to<br />
primordium formation and harvest are desirable. Poster<br />
SHEN, QING AND ROYSE, J. Dept, <strong>of</strong> Plant<br />
Path~olog~, <strong>The</strong> Pennsylvania State University, University<br />
Park, PA 16802, USA. Molecular phylogenetic analysis <strong>of</strong><br />
Grifola based on internal transcribed spacer ribosomal<br />
DNA sequencesclassification<br />
schemes will be discussed. Contributed <strong>The</strong> taxonomic position <strong>of</strong> Grifola and some <strong>of</strong> its allies is<br />
Presentation not clear. We amplified the internal transcribed spacers 1 and<br />
57
2 (ITS-I and 2) and 5.8s regions <strong>of</strong> the nuclear ribosomal<br />
DNA transcriptional unit by PCR and sequenced 5 1 strains<br />
<strong>of</strong> Grifola frondosa, one strain <strong>of</strong> Grifola sordulenta, and<br />
two strains <strong>of</strong> Polyporus urnbellatus. Levels <strong>of</strong> variation<br />
present in ITS-1, ITS-2 and 5.8s were quantified. Nucleotide<br />
variation within isolates <strong>of</strong> Grifola frondosa was relatively<br />
small compared to Grifola sordulenta (12.6%) and<br />
Polyporus urnbellatus (21.7%). For phylogenetic analysis <strong>of</strong><br />
Grifola spp., Ganoderrna lucidium was used as an outgroup.<br />
Maximum parsimony, distance and bootstrap analyses were<br />
performed and results revealed independent lineages among<br />
species <strong>of</strong> Grifola frondosa, Grifola sordulenta, and<br />
Polyporus urnbellatus. Two major clades were identified<br />
within Grifola frondosa. Clade I included most <strong>of</strong> the North<br />
<strong>America</strong>n isolates, while Clade I1 consisted <strong>of</strong> mostly <strong>of</strong><br />
Asian isolates. <strong>The</strong> major commercial isolate (unknown<br />
origin) used on most mushroom farms is apparently <strong>of</strong> Asian<br />
decent. Poster<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
<strong>of</strong> M. horizontalis obtained from collections made in Europe,<br />
the north coast <strong>of</strong> California, Washington, and Argentina also<br />
defined a single, large intersterility group. DNA amplifica-<br />
tion fingerprinting (DAF) data on the M. horizontalis and M.<br />
alpiniae complexes supports the separation <strong>of</strong> the two<br />
intersterility groups. A total <strong>of</strong> 10 random oligonucleotide<br />
octamer and heptamer primers generated 125 polymorphic<br />
loci amongst the two intersterile populations <strong>of</strong> Melanotus.<br />
While DAF was able to distinguish between intersterile<br />
groups, it does not appear suitable for distinguishing mem-<br />
bers within an intersterility group based on geographic<br />
locale. DAF appears, however, to be able to distinguish<br />
within an intersterility group based on overall host prefer-<br />
ence. Poster<br />
*SMITH, STEPHEN S. Life and Health Sciences, Aston<br />
University, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK. Perspectives <strong>of</strong> UK<br />
Mycology Instruction.<br />
This presentation reflects the authors personal, hence<br />
*SILVA, MARIA IVONE L., MILANEZ, ADAUTO I., potentially controversial view, <strong>of</strong> current developments in<br />
PIRES-ZOTTARELLI, CARMEN LaA. Secao de Micologia UK higher education and mycology in particular. Under the<br />
e Liquenologia, Instituto de Botanica, Caixa Postal 4005, auspices <strong>of</strong> UK governments <strong>of</strong> varying political persuasion<br />
01061-970 Sao Paulo, Brasil. Zoosporic fungi from the "<strong>The</strong> Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education" has<br />
Amazon State (Manaus), Brazil. rapidly prospered reaching deep into the provision <strong>of</strong> all UK<br />
Water and soil samples were collected every three months,<br />
from March 1998 through December 1999, in the campus <strong>of</strong><br />
the Federal University <strong>of</strong> Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil to<br />
characterize the zoosporic micota. <strong>The</strong>se samples baited with<br />
keratinous, chitinous and cellulosic substrates yielded 41<br />
infrageneric taxa, belonging to 17 genera. Among the total<br />
number <strong>of</strong> occurrences, 62.0% belong to the<br />
Chytridiomycota and 38.0% to the Oomycota; and 53.5%<br />
were obtained from soil samples and 46.5% from water<br />
samples. <strong>The</strong> most predominant taxa from both environments<br />
were Achlya orion Coker & Couch and Achlya proliferoides<br />
Coker <strong>of</strong> the Oomycota and Polychytrium aggregaturn<br />
Ajello, Karlingia granulata Karling and Chytriornyces<br />
spinosus Fay <strong>of</strong> the Chytridiomycota. This last species is<br />
being reported for the first time from Brazil. Poster<br />
"SIME, A. DAVID AND PETERSEN, R.H. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Botany,<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996 USA.<br />
Further investigations in the Melanotus horizontalis and<br />
M. alpiniue complex (Agaricales, Strophariaceae).<br />
In traditional literature, microscopic and substratum charac-<br />
teristics have delineated several morphospecies <strong>of</strong><br />
Melanotus. We have materials <strong>of</strong> Melanotus collected on<br />
monocot/dicot debri in Mexico, Guatemala, Puerto Rico, and<br />
Borneo and found all collections to be sexually<br />
intercompatible. Only slight microscopic differences were<br />
found between collections, and appear to be correlated<br />
geographically. Specimens in this intersterility group are<br />
tentatively referred to M. alpiniae. Previous work on isolates<br />
higher education/university courses, including those <strong>of</strong> a<br />
mycological nature. Presentational material outlines the<br />
character <strong>of</strong> said agency and its impact on diverse aspects <strong>of</strong><br />
UK higher education including:- course design, stafftstudent<br />
assessment, student support. Presented material will also<br />
reflect on resourcing implications and demands <strong>of</strong> such an<br />
agency. In the light <strong>of</strong> such demands the nature and current<br />
provision <strong>of</strong> mycology for a "typical" UK degree course will<br />
subsequently be outlined, forms <strong>of</strong> presentation including<br />
representative internet material, in addition student response<br />
and assessment <strong>of</strong> such material will be presented. Conclud-<br />
ing elements include a short series <strong>of</strong> mycological images<br />
provided by UK colleagues and associated reflections, which<br />
we feel should influence the thinking <strong>of</strong> mycological and<br />
biological students into the new millenium. Symposium<br />
Presentation<br />
SON, JONGHYUN', HUANG, JENQ KUEN2, "GESSNER,<br />
ROBERT V.' AND KEUDELL, KENNETH C. 'Dept. <strong>of</strong><br />
Biological Sciences and 2Dept. <strong>of</strong> Chemistry, Western Illinois<br />
University, Macomb, IL 61455 USA. Bioconversion <strong>of</strong> oleic<br />
acid by yeasts and molds.<br />
Selected yeast and mold strains were screened for their<br />
ability to bioconvert oleic acid to useful value-added<br />
products. <strong>The</strong> fungal strains were grown in glucose-peptone-<br />
yeast extract broth to stationary stage and then transferred to<br />
fresh medium containing oleic acid. Samples were collected<br />
from the cultures at different time intervals and the lipids<br />
then extracted. <strong>The</strong> extracts were analyzed by thin layer
chromatography (TLC). Forty-five strains were examined<br />
with seven <strong>of</strong> the yeast strains including Debaryomyces<br />
hansenii, Rhodotorula rubra, and Trichosporon beigelii,<br />
producing significant bioconversion products. <strong>The</strong>se strains<br />
were able to convert oleic acid to polar compounds, some <strong>of</strong><br />
which approximated the mobility <strong>of</strong> 10-hydroxy stearic acid<br />
and 10-keto stearic acid. Selected lipid spots on the TLC<br />
plates were further characterized by gas chromatography-<br />
mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) which confirmed the presence<br />
<strong>of</strong> products that were more polar than oleic acid. Poster<br />
SPATAFORA, J.W. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Botany and Plant Pathology,<br />
Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331 USA. <strong>The</strong><br />
tangled web <strong>of</strong> teaching mycology on the Internet.<br />
<strong>The</strong> advent <strong>of</strong> the Internet has changed the way in which we<br />
communicate science. Accompanying this technology are<br />
numerous challenges and possibilities that effect the quality<br />
<strong>of</strong> instruction. <strong>The</strong>se challenges and possibilities include ii<br />
but are not limited to ii format <strong>of</strong> examinations, continued<br />
viability <strong>of</strong> textbooks, unconventional sources <strong>of</strong> information<br />
and references, student attendance, funding, and resource<br />
personnel. In my presentation I will discuss approaches that<br />
have and have not worked for me as part <strong>of</strong> my transition to<br />
web-based instruction in teaching Introductory Mycology. In<br />
summary, it has been my experience that 1) "once you go<br />
web you can't go back", 2) web-based instruction does not<br />
lead to decreased student attendance and is a more effective<br />
means <strong>of</strong> communicating to today's students, and 3) web-<br />
based teaching has allowed me to incorporate better images,<br />
more information and more non-lecture experiences, i.e.,<br />
laboratories and field trips, into my course. <strong>The</strong> Internet also<br />
<strong>of</strong>fers the opportunity to develop multi-institution, web-<br />
based courses in mycology. Such an approach to teaching is<br />
inevitable and affords us the possibility to incorporate the<br />
expertise and resources beyond that <strong>of</strong> a single individual or<br />
institution into a learning experience that is best for the<br />
student and the long-term health <strong>of</strong> mycology. Symposium<br />
Presentation<br />
*SPIEGEL, FREDERICK W.' AND HEMMES, DON Ee2.<br />
'Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences, University <strong>of</strong> Arkansas,<br />
Fayetteville, AR 72701 USA, 2Biology Dept., University <strong>of</strong><br />
Hawaii-Hilo, Hilo, HI 96720 USA. Acrasis rosea is an alien<br />
species <strong>of</strong> slime mold in Hawaii.<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
island <strong>of</strong> Hawaii, the acrasid cellular slime mold Acrasis<br />
rosea was encountered in about 2% <strong>of</strong> all collections. <strong>The</strong><br />
sites differed with respect to annual rainfall and altitude but<br />
all had the common feature <strong>of</strong> being highly disturbed by<br />
human activity. No predominantly native habitats supported<br />
A. rosea . This suggests that this mycetozoan is an alien<br />
species on Hawaii. Poster<br />
*SPIEGEL , FREDERICK W. ' AND DON E. HEMMES2.<br />
'Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences, University <strong>of</strong> Arkansas,<br />
Fayetteville, AR 72701 USA and 2Biology Dept. University<br />
<strong>of</strong> Hawaii-Hilo, Hilo, HI 97720 USA. Rainforests are not<br />
so diverse after all.<br />
While it is the common perception that rainforests are<br />
typically very rich in species, this is not always the case.<br />
Native rainforests on the island <strong>of</strong> Hawaii do not have a very<br />
species rich flora, in part because <strong>of</strong> the very isolated<br />
location <strong>of</strong> the Hawaiian Archipelago. However, this pattern<br />
may not necessarily be expected for the biota <strong>of</strong> eukaryotic<br />
microorganisms, since many are dispersed much more<br />
readily than plants. In the case <strong>of</strong> the protostelids, Hawaii in<br />
general has a very species rich biota. This species richness is<br />
found in both native and alien environments, suggesting that<br />
protostelids have reached the island in great numbers.<br />
However, the native montane rainforests are depauperate for<br />
protostelids, both in abundance and species richness. This<br />
finding correlates with previous nutrient cycling studies<br />
which suggest that the nutrient content in plant litter in this<br />
habitat is very low. <strong>The</strong>refore, protostelids may be rare here<br />
because their prey bacteria and fungi do not grow well on the<br />
litter. It may prove to be the case that protostelids on<br />
decomposing substrates may be good bioindicators <strong>of</strong> the<br />
nutrient quality <strong>of</strong> those substrates. Contributed Presentation<br />
*STEENKAMP, EMMA', BRITZ, HENRIETTE',<br />
COUTINHO, TERESA', WINGFIELD, BRENDA',<br />
MARASAS, WALTER2, AND WINGFIELD, MICHAEL'.<br />
'Depts. <strong>of</strong> Genetics, Microbiology and Plant Pathology,<br />
Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI),<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa,<br />
2PROMEC, Medical Research Council, PO Box 19070,<br />
Tygerberg 7505, South Africa. Polyphyletic origin <strong>of</strong><br />
Fusarium subglutinans associated with mango malforma-<br />
tion in South Africa.<br />
<strong>The</strong> biota <strong>of</strong> the Hawaiian Islands is a mix <strong>of</strong> natural Mango is an important fruit crop in many tropical and<br />
immigrants and immigrants which have been intentionally or subtropical countries. <strong>The</strong>se industries are seriously threat-<br />
unintentionally introduced by humans in the last 1500 years. ened by a fungal disease known as mango malformation. <strong>The</strong><br />
<strong>The</strong>se introduced species are called alien species. <strong>The</strong> affects causal agent <strong>of</strong> this disease is Fusarium subglutinans. This<br />
<strong>of</strong> alien species is being well documented with respect to species consists <strong>of</strong> a number <strong>of</strong> polyphyletic lineages that are<br />
plants and animals. However, less is known concerning associated with specific plant hosts such as mango, maize,<br />
eukaryotic microorganisms. Before the impact <strong>of</strong> alien pine, pineapple and sugarcane. A survey <strong>of</strong> mango malfor-<br />
species can be evaluated, they must be identified. In a survey mation in South Africa indicated that isolates <strong>of</strong> E<br />
<strong>of</strong> simple slime molds, i.e, protostelids and acrasids, on the subglutinans associated with this disease might be polyphyl-<br />
59
etic. <strong>The</strong> aim <strong>of</strong> our study was to characterize E subglutinans<br />
collected from malformed mango flowers in South Africa,<br />
using histone H3 gene sequences. We also attempted to<br />
determine the possible identities <strong>of</strong> the fungi associated with<br />
mango malformation. For this we sequenced the intron-rich<br />
regions <strong>of</strong> the beta-tubulin gene and compared it with the<br />
NCBI nucleotide database, since the histone H3 information<br />
in this database is much less than that on beta-tubulin. <strong>The</strong><br />
results indicated that mango malformation in South Africa is<br />
associated with two phylogenetically distinct lineages,<br />
representing separate species. One <strong>of</strong> these lineages is<br />
conspecific with strains <strong>of</strong> E subglutinans previously shown<br />
to be the causal agent <strong>of</strong> mango malformation. <strong>The</strong> second<br />
lineage is unique and has thus far only been isolated from<br />
malformed mango flowers in South Africa. Poster<br />
*SUH, SUNG-OUI AND BLACKWELL, M. Dept. <strong>of</strong><br />
Biological Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton<br />
Rouge, LA 70803 USA. Group I introns from fungal<br />
nuclear SSU rDNA: characterization <strong>of</strong> 16 additional<br />
introns.<br />
Group I introns, which are characterized by the ability to<br />
self-splice from their precursor, have been divided into 5<br />
major groups, IA to IE, based on secondary structure<br />
characteristics. <strong>The</strong>y <strong>of</strong>ten have been found in fungal nuclear<br />
SSU rDNA, and at least 18 insertion positions have been<br />
reported. During phylogenetic studies <strong>of</strong> ascomycetes, we<br />
discovered 16 additional introns from SSU rDNA <strong>of</strong> 9 fungal<br />
species (1). <strong>The</strong> introns were inserted in 5 common sites,<br />
5 16,943,989,1199, and 1506 (SSU rDNA <strong>of</strong> E. coli ) with<br />
281-653 bp in length, and were found to have the highly<br />
conserved sequence elements <strong>of</strong> group I introns (P, Q, R, and<br />
S), based on secondary structure analyses. <strong>The</strong> comparative<br />
sequence analyses were performed based on 79 nt positions<br />
<strong>of</strong> the highly conserved core regions <strong>of</strong> over 200 group I<br />
introns. All the introns inserted in 516,989, and 1199 were<br />
included in the major group IE, and made a distinct group<br />
from other major groups. On the other hand, those in the<br />
positions 943 and 1506 were in the group IC 1, the most<br />
common type found in SSU rDNA. (1) Bulbithecium<br />
hyalosporum (5 16, 1 199), Hypocrea pallida (5 16,943,<br />
1 199), Cordycepioideus bisporus (5 16,989), Cryptendoxyla<br />
hypophloia (989, 1 199). Apioplagiostoma aceriferum (943,<br />
1 199), Nigrosabulum globosum (943), Cephalotheca sulfurea<br />
(943), Connersia rilstonii (943, 1506), Gnomoniella<br />
tubaeformis ( 1506). Poster<br />
*SUH, SUNG-OUI AND BLACKWELL, M. Department <strong>of</strong><br />
Biological Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton<br />
Rouge, LA 70803 USA. Molecular phylogenetic studies on<br />
Endomyces scopularum, a mushroom parasite.<br />
Species <strong>of</strong> Endomyces reported as mushroom parasites, have<br />
an uncertain phylogenetic position among ascomycetes<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
60<br />
because most have not been grown in culture. Of the four<br />
species accepted in <strong>The</strong> yeasts, a taxonomic study (1998),<br />
three strains <strong>of</strong> Endomyces scopularum are in the CBS<br />
culture collection. Of these CBS 13 1.86 was placed in<br />
Euascomycetes by comparison <strong>of</strong> partial sequence <strong>of</strong> 26s<br />
rDNA (Kurtzman and Robnett 1995). To clarify the tax-<br />
onomy <strong>of</strong> these ecologically interesting isolates, we deter-<br />
mined the partial sequences <strong>of</strong> both 18s (about 1.7 kb) and<br />
26s rDNA (1 kb) <strong>of</strong> all three strains. We compared these<br />
with species <strong>of</strong> Euascomycetes and Hemiascomycetes. CBS<br />
131.86 was in a well supported lineage with Ophiostoma<br />
species in the analyses; CBS 154.92 and CBS 155.92, which<br />
have identical sequences, were placed in the<br />
Hemiascomycetes with a very close relationship to Candida<br />
fukazawae, C. sagamina, and C. fungicola from<br />
basidiocarps, which recently were reported as new species.<br />
Pichia ohmeri and its anamorph were sister taxa <strong>of</strong> the yeast<br />
isolates. Because none <strong>of</strong> these isolates produces ascospores<br />
on artificial media, we could not compare their morphology.<br />
However, the Candida-like anamorph in the original descrip-<br />
tion <strong>of</strong> E. scopularumis more similar to CBS 154.92 and<br />
CBS 155.92 than to CBS 13 1.86 with its Sporothrix-like<br />
anamorph. Poster<br />
SUNDARAM, SATHISH', HIREMATHH, SHIV F,<br />
PODILA, GOPI Kt. 'Department <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences,<br />
Michigan Technological University, Houghton MI 49931<br />
USA, 2USDA-NEFES, Delaware, OH 43015 USA. Cloning<br />
<strong>of</strong> a ras gene from an ectomycorrhizal fungus Laccaria<br />
bicolor and characterization <strong>of</strong> its symbiosis-regulated<br />
expression.<br />
Ectomycorrhizal symbiosis between plant roots and fungi is<br />
characterized by dynamic interactions between the partners<br />
involved. <strong>The</strong>se interaction events include a variety <strong>of</strong> signal<br />
exchanges, processing and gene regulation in both the<br />
partners. <strong>The</strong>se events are critical for the formation and<br />
functional maintenance <strong>of</strong> the symbiotic organ that is<br />
essential for the survival <strong>of</strong> both the partners. Our investiga-<br />
tions <strong>of</strong> symbiotic interactions between the ectomycorrhizal<br />
fungus Laccaria bicolor and Pinus resinosa(red pine) have<br />
led to the isolation and characterization <strong>of</strong> a symbiosis<br />
regulated fungal ras gene. Expression <strong>of</strong> the Laccaria bicolor<br />
ras(Lbras) is temporally regulated during early stages <strong>of</strong><br />
these interactions. RNA and protein expression analysis<br />
show the clone to be differentially expressed between<br />
ectomycorrhizal and free living fungal mycelial tissue.<br />
Immunolocalization studies show LbRas's spatial expression<br />
in ectomycorrhizal tissue. Data on LbRas's differential<br />
expression as well as differential and spatial regulation in<br />
ectomycorrhizal symbiosis will be presented. Poster
*SUNG, G.-H.', HODGE, K.H.2, ZARE, R.3, GAMS, W.4,<br />
SPATAFORA, J.W.'. IDept. <strong>of</strong> Botany & Plant Pathology,<br />
Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA, 2Depts. <strong>of</strong><br />
Plant Biology & Plant Pathology, Cornell University, Ithaca,<br />
NY, USA, 3CABI Bioscience, Egham, Surrey, UK,<br />
4Centraalbureau voor Schimmelcultures, Baarn, NL. Mo-<br />
lecular Phylogenetics <strong>of</strong> Verticillium section Prostrata.<br />
Verticillium is a heterogeneous assemblage <strong>of</strong> anamorphic<br />
fungi that contains distantly related groups <strong>of</strong> taxa from<br />
several families <strong>of</strong> ascomycetes. <strong>The</strong> genus has a broad host<br />
range with mainly plant-associated, fungicolous,<br />
entomogenous and nematophagous groups. As part <strong>of</strong> our<br />
overall research on the evolution <strong>of</strong> entomopathogenic<br />
Clavicipitaceae, we have initiated a phylogenetic analysis <strong>of</strong><br />
V. sect. Prostrata which includes pathogens <strong>of</strong> arthropods<br />
and fungi and anamorphs <strong>of</strong> Cordyceps and Torrubiella.<br />
Cladistic analyses <strong>of</strong> sequence data from the large and small<br />
subunits <strong>of</strong> the nuclear ribosomal DNA were conducted to<br />
develop phylogenetic hypotheses for V. sect. Prostrata and<br />
its relationships with the teleomorphs <strong>of</strong> the Clavicipitaceae.<br />
<strong>The</strong>se analyses indicate that V. sect. Prostrata is polyphyletic<br />
and is interspersed with other anamorph genera (e.g.,<br />
Aphanocladium, Engyodontiurn) throughout the<br />
Clavicipitaceae. Furthermore, host affiliation is not indica-<br />
tive <strong>of</strong> monophyletic groups <strong>of</strong> fungi currently classified<br />
within V. sect. Prostrata. Most <strong>of</strong> the specimens sampled are<br />
phylogenetically affiliated with clades containing<br />
teleomorphs <strong>of</strong> Cordyceps and Torrubiella. <strong>The</strong> evolution<br />
and taxonomy <strong>of</strong> Verticillium as it applies to the<br />
Clavicipitaceae will be discussed. Poster<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
*SWANSON, ANDREW R.', HEMMES, DON E.', AND<br />
SPIEGEL, FREDERICK W.I 'Department <strong>of</strong> Biological<br />
Sciences, University <strong>of</strong> Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701<br />
USA, 2Department <strong>of</strong> Biology, University <strong>of</strong> Hawaii, 200<br />
Kawili Street, Hilo, HI 97620 USA. Dictyostelids <strong>of</strong><br />
Hawaii: where are the tropical species?<br />
Soil and litter samples were collected from various plant<br />
communities ranging from tropical rainforest to orographic<br />
desert on the island <strong>of</strong> Hawaii (the Big Island) during<br />
January, 2000.205 samples were collected and processed for<br />
dictyostelid cellular slime molds. Thus far, only 6 described<br />
species have been recovered, most <strong>of</strong> which are cosmopoli-<br />
tan in nature. Notably absent from Hawaii's tropical forests<br />
are several species known to be pantropical. Previous<br />
cursory studies <strong>of</strong> Hawaiian dictyostelids have suggested a<br />
depauperate collection <strong>of</strong> slime molds there. Our data<br />
support this observation. This pattern is quite different from<br />
distributional patterns <strong>of</strong> protostelids and myxogastrids in<br />
Hawaii. Contributed Presentation<br />
"SWANSON, ANDREW R. AND SPIEGEL, FREDERICK<br />
W. Department <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences, University <strong>of</strong><br />
Arkansas, Fayetteville AR 72701 USA. A phylogenetic<br />
analysis <strong>of</strong> dictyostelid slime molds using morphological<br />
characters.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Eumycetozoa are a monopyletic group that includes<br />
Protostelids, Dictyostelids, and Myxogastrids. Dictyostelids<br />
(Acytostelium, Dictyosteliurn, and Polysphondylium)<br />
comprise a monophyletic group within the Eumycetozoa.<br />
However, within the dictyostelids, the phyletic structure <strong>of</strong><br />
- ~<br />
the three genera has not been explicitly and objectively<br />
JAE-Mo. Department tested. In order to test if morphological data are enough to<br />
Kangwon National University, Chunchon, Korea. Korean suppod the cument taxonomy <strong>of</strong> the dictyostelids, we<br />
Cordyceps and Fruiting Body Formation. subjected 65 species to both rooted and unrooted cladistic<br />
Thirty species <strong>of</strong> Cordyceps were collected and identified:<br />
Cordyceps agriota, C. bifusispora, C. discoideocapitata, C.<br />
formicarum, C. geniculata, C. gracilis, C. heteropoda, C.<br />
intermedia, C. jezoensis, C. kyushuensis, C. martialis, C.<br />
militaris, C. myrmecophila, C. nigrella, C. nutans, C.<br />
ochraceostomata, C. ophioglossoides, C. oxycephala., C.<br />
pentatomi, C, scarabaeicola, C. sobolifera, C.<br />
sphecocephala, C. tricentri, unidentified Cordyceps spp. and<br />
Shirnizuomyces paradoxa. Cordyceps species were mainly<br />
distributed in broad leaf forests where relative humidity was<br />
high. Some <strong>of</strong> Cordyceps and Paecilomyces formed fruiting<br />
body on media consisting on brown rice and silkworm pupae<br />
at the ratio 1 brown rice to 2 water. Optimal temperature for<br />
mycelial growth and for induction <strong>of</strong> artificial fruiting body<br />
was at 24 and 20°.. ., respectively. Most <strong>of</strong> Cordyceps and<br />
Paecilomyces was completed at 60 days and 30 days,<br />
respectively, to produce a artificial fruiting bodies on rice<br />
grain and pupae media. Poster<br />
analyses using PAUP. In neither case were the genera <strong>of</strong> the<br />
dictyostelids represented by monophyletic groupings. It<br />
appears that phylogenetic signals from morphology alone do<br />
not reflect the classical taxonomy <strong>of</strong> the group. Poster<br />
SZANISZLO, PAUL J. Sect. Molecular Genetics & Microbiology,<br />
Univ. <strong>of</strong> Texas, Austin, TX 78712-1059, USA.<br />
Relevance <strong>of</strong> chitin synthases to virulence in Wangiellu<br />
(Exophiala)dermatitidis, a model melanized pathogen <strong>of</strong><br />
humans.<br />
Four chitin synthase genes have been cloned and characterized<br />
in Wangiella demuztitidis. Although each has been<br />
disrupted singly, and in all six double and two <strong>of</strong> four triple<br />
combinations, the exact function <strong>of</strong> each gene's product<br />
(WdChs) is not yet clearly established. Nonetheless, it<br />
appears that WdChs1, WdChs2 and WdChs4 function<br />
similarly at 25C to their Saccharomyces cerevisiae homologs.<br />
In contrast, WdChs3, with no yeast homolog, is
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
encoded by a differentially expressed gene that contributes leaflets and petioles <strong>of</strong> Rosa wichuraiana, a species rose<br />
chitin synthase mostly during stress, including shift <strong>of</strong> cells generally noted for its high level <strong>of</strong> disease resistance.<br />
to 37C. While this suggests that WdChs3 is important to Symptomatic tissue was collected and prepared for scanning<br />
virulence, it may not be most important because: 1) strains and transmission electron microscopy. Clusters <strong>of</strong> conidiodevoid<br />
only <strong>of</strong> WdChs3 are fully virulent; 2) strains with phores ruptured the upper epidermis and emerged through<br />
WdChs4 alone or with WdChs3 are temperature-sensitive stomata1 openings on the lower leaf surface. A series <strong>of</strong><br />
and cannot grow at 37C; 3) strains with only WdChs2 are threadlike, curved conidia was produced as conidiophores<br />
also fully virulent. <strong>The</strong>se results suggest that whereas elongated sympodially. Germ tubes typically emerged from<br />
WdChsl and WdChs2 are redundant for function at 25C and the spore apex to initiate penetration <strong>of</strong> the host. Fungal<br />
viability at 37C, <strong>of</strong> the two, WdChs2 is more important to hyphae extensively colonized the epidermis and extended<br />
virulence. However, WdChs3 still must contribute to through the mesophyll. Infected host cells rapidly necrosed,<br />
virulence, when WdChs2 is defective but WdChsl is intact, as evidenced by disintegration <strong>of</strong> organelles, collapse <strong>of</strong> cell<br />
because among mutants that grow at 37C, only those devoid walls, and accumulation <strong>of</strong> electron dense material in the<br />
<strong>of</strong> both WdChQ and WdChs3 are less virulent. Apparently in cytoplasm. Conidiation was initiated as sporogenous hyphae<br />
the absence <strong>of</strong> WdChs2, WdChs3 but not WdChs4 is accumulated in the epidermis. Susceptibility <strong>of</strong> R.<br />
redundant for virulence, explaining why all single chitin wichuraiana to Cercospora leaf spot potentially comprosynthase<br />
mutants are also virulent. Symposium Presentation mises its use in rose breeding programs to increase disease<br />
*TAYLOR, JOHN W.', JACOBSON, DAVID J.l, KROKEN,<br />
resistance. Poster<br />
SCOTT1, KASUGA, TAKA02, GEISER, DAVID, M.3,<br />
FISHER, MAT C.'. IDepartment <strong>of</strong> Plant and Microbial<br />
Biology, University <strong>of</strong> California, Berkeley, CA 94720-3102<br />
USA, 2Roche Molecular Systems, 1145 Atlantic Avenue,<br />
Alameda, CA 94501 USA, 'Department <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology,<br />
Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA.<br />
Using phylogenetics to identify fungal species.<br />
<strong>The</strong> great advantage <strong>of</strong> the Morphological Species Concept<br />
is that all described fungi have been diagnosed and that<br />
potentially new species can be compared to all existing<br />
where the<br />
(BSC) has been applied to morphological species, the latter<br />
frequently have been found to comprise more than one<br />
biological species. Unfortunately, the BSC is unlikely to be<br />
applied because many fungi be cultivated and<br />
*THOMPSON, THERESE A. AND BLANCHARD,<br />
ROBERT 0. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant Biology, University <strong>of</strong> New<br />
hi^^, ~~~h~~ NH 03824 USA. ~ ~ ~ basidi- l ~<br />
omycetes from organic and mineral soil horizons.<br />
In an attempt to determine if decay fungi form a bridge<br />
between felled decaying wood and the contiguous soil<br />
horizons, as a means <strong>of</strong> transporting nutrients used in the<br />
decay process, techniques for efficient isolations were<br />
developed. Media for selective isolation <strong>of</strong> basidiomycetes<br />
from decaying logs and soil horizons have been previously<br />
refined and reported by us, but published techniques <strong>of</strong><br />
isolating fungi from various soil horizons proved problematic.<br />
Spodic soil horizons at six sites in the Bartlett Experimental<br />
Forest, New Hampshire were classified and evaluated.<br />
Samples <strong>of</strong> these soils were processed by a variety <strong>of</strong><br />
t i ~ ~<br />
fewer can be induced mate in techniques involving washing, dilutions, and direct plating.<br />
the gene genealogies, can be<br />
using the transition from to~olOgical<br />
to conflict. This gene genealogy concordance version <strong>of</strong> the<br />
~hylogenetic species Concept (PSC) may become popular<br />
because it can be applied to all fungi, including<br />
uncultivatable fungi and mitosporic fungi. Recent application<br />
<strong>of</strong> this PSC in fungi such as Coccidioides immitis, Aspergillusjlavus,<br />
Histoplasma capsulatum, and Letharia vulpina/ L.<br />
Results revealed differences in techniques for maximizing<br />
isolations <strong>of</strong> basidiomycetes from organic vs, mineral soils.<br />
~~~~~~i~~ washing <strong>of</strong> 2.5 <strong>of</strong> organic soil and 5 <strong>of</strong><br />
inorganic soil in a 0.1% solution <strong>of</strong> sodium pyrophosphate,<br />
followed by a dilution <strong>of</strong> 1:20000 and 1:2500, respectively,<br />
yielded manageable numbers <strong>of</strong> colonies for obtaining pure<br />
cultures. poster<br />
columbiana has revealed genetically isolated groups <strong>of</strong> fungi<br />
that are considered to be a single species under the MSC.<br />
With the knowledge that these genetically isolated groups<br />
exist, phenotypical correlates have been found. Contributed<br />
Presentation<br />
THORN, R. GREG. Department <strong>of</strong> Botany, University <strong>of</strong><br />
Wyoming, Laramie, WY 82071 USA. A home at last:<br />
phylogenetic placement <strong>of</strong> the Cotton Root Rot pathogen,<br />
Phymatohichopsis omnivora.<br />
Cotton Root Rot is estimated to cause over $100,000,000 in<br />
TAYLOR, JOSEPHINE. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biology, Stephen F. Austin damage annually to the U.S. cotton crop alone. <strong>The</strong> causal<br />
State University, Nacogdoches TX 75962 USA. Infection <strong>of</strong> organism, Phymatotrichopsis omnivora (Po, better known as<br />
Rosa wichuraiana by the leaf spot pathogen Cercospora Ph~matotrichum omnivorum), is known only as an asexual,<br />
rosicola.<br />
holoanamorphic (mitosporic) fungus, and produces conidia<br />
Cercospora rosicola was isolated from necrotic lesions on<br />
resembling those <strong>of</strong> Botrytis. Several teleomorphs (sexual<br />
62
states) have been suggested for Po, including Hydnum<br />
omnivorum [ Phanerochaete omnivora] and Sistotrema<br />
brinkmannii. Both are corticioid Homobasidiomycetes.<br />
Phanerochaete omnivora was found fruiting on an Osage<br />
orange with wilt symptoms similar to those caused by Po and<br />
was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. <strong>The</strong> report<br />
by Baniecki and Bloss (1969) <strong>of</strong> the formation <strong>of</strong> a<br />
Sistotrema brinkmannii teleomorph in cultures <strong>of</strong> Powas<br />
apparently based on cultural contamination, since S.<br />
brinkmannii basidiospores failed to form cultures <strong>of</strong> Po.<br />
Nonetheless, the 8th edition <strong>of</strong> the Dictionary <strong>of</strong> the Fungi<br />
(1995) lists Po as anamorphic Sistotremataceae. Phyloge-<br />
netic analyses <strong>of</strong> nuclear small- and large-subunit ribosomal<br />
DNA from multiple isolates <strong>of</strong> Po indicate that Po is neither<br />
a Homobasidiomycete nor is it closely related to other<br />
species <strong>of</strong> Botrytis (Sclerotiniaceae). Its closest relationship<br />
appears to be with Rhizina in the Helvellaceae sensu lato.<br />
Poster<br />
TOURNAS, V.H. Food and Drug Administration, CFSAN,<br />
200 C Street, SW 20204, USA. Mold and yeast contamina-<br />
tion <strong>of</strong> fresh sprouts.<br />
Sprouts can be easily contaminated with various types <strong>of</strong><br />
microbes, including molds and yeasts, during cultivation,<br />
marketing and at the consumer's hands. Some <strong>of</strong> these<br />
organisms are potentially toxigenic andlor pathogenic and<br />
constitute a health hazard for humans. To determine if<br />
toxigenic and pathogenic fungi were present in sprouts, a<br />
limited survey <strong>of</strong> sprout commodities in the Washington,<br />
D.C. area was conducted. One hundred five sprout samples<br />
(bean, alfalfa, broccoli and crunchy sprouts) were purchased<br />
from 13 local supermarkets and tested for yeast and mold<br />
counts as well as presence <strong>of</strong> toxigenic molds. Yeasts were<br />
the most prevalent organisms found in these samples, at<br />
levels ranging from less than 100 to 4 x 10-8 cfulg. Mold<br />
counts generally ranged from less than 100 to 4.0 x 10-4 cfd<br />
g. Three crunchy sprout samples contained unusually high<br />
numbers <strong>of</strong> Penicillium (10-7- 10-9 cfulg), 2 alfalfa sprout<br />
samples contained Geotrichum populations about 10-6 cfulg,<br />
and 2 alfalfa sprout samples had Cladosporium counts higher<br />
than 2.5 x 10-5 cfulg. <strong>The</strong> most common molds in sprouts<br />
were Alternaria, Cladosporium, and Phoma. Phoma was<br />
very common in alfalfa sprouts. Penicillium, Fusarium,<br />
Rhizopus, Mucor and Geotrichum were isolated less fre-<br />
quently. Poster<br />
*TRUDELL, STEVEN A. AND EDMONDS, ROBERT L.<br />
Ecosystem Science Division, College <strong>of</strong> Forest Resources,<br />
Box 352100, University <strong>of</strong> Washington, Seattle, Washington<br />
98 195-2100 USA (mycecol@u.washington.edu I<br />
bobe@u.washington.edu). New respect for the forgotten<br />
kingdom: Fungi and the nitrogen cycle.<br />
N is essential for plants and <strong>of</strong>ten is reported as the nutrient<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
6 13<br />
most limiting to biological productivity in terrestrial ecosys-<br />
tems <strong>of</strong> the Northern Hemisphere. <strong>The</strong> chemistry <strong>of</strong> N is<br />
complex, involving interconversions between several<br />
valence states and elemental combinations. <strong>The</strong> commonly<br />
held view <strong>of</strong> N-cycling in soils features bacterial transforma-<br />
tion <strong>of</strong> complex organic forms to simple inorganic or mineral<br />
forms (primarily ammonium and nitrate) that are available<br />
for direct uptake by plants. <strong>The</strong> role that fungi might play in<br />
these processes generally has been ignored. However, recent<br />
evidence from several lines <strong>of</strong> research indicates that, in<br />
many ecosystems, fungi indeed do play critical roles in N-<br />
cycling, including chemical transformation, control <strong>of</strong><br />
bioavailability, and mediation <strong>of</strong> plant uptake. <strong>The</strong>se<br />
findings, many <strong>of</strong> which were anticipated over a century ago,<br />
provide cause to reassess some long-held axioms. For<br />
example, "plant-available N" no longer can be considered as<br />
just mineral N and can no longer be thought <strong>of</strong> as uniformly<br />
applicable to all plants. Instead, the availability <strong>of</strong> N to<br />
plants varies in complex fashion, both spatially and tempo-<br />
rally, and depends on a large number <strong>of</strong> factors such as type<br />
<strong>of</strong> plant, type and diversity <strong>of</strong> mycorrhizal fungal symbionts,<br />
presence and activity <strong>of</strong> other soil organisms, season,<br />
climate, and pH, with fungi playing a central role. Contrib-<br />
uted Presentation<br />
TURGEON, GILLIAN. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology, Cornell<br />
Univ., Ithaca, NY, Novartis Agricultural Discovery Institute,<br />
San Diego, CA, USA. Stable and unstable mating type loci<br />
in sexual and asexual ascomycetes.<br />
Mating type (MAT) genes were cloned from three members<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Gibberella/Fusarium complex differing in reproduc-<br />
tive mode: heterothallic G. fujikuroi (Gf), homothallic G.<br />
zeae (Gz), and asexual E oxysporum (Fo). Gf MAT organiza-<br />
tion is typical <strong>of</strong> other heterothallic pyrenomycetes, i.e.,<br />
there are three genes at MAT1 -I and one at MAT1 -2. Gz has<br />
homologues <strong>of</strong> all four genes encoded by the two Gf MAT<br />
idiomorphs, tightly linked on the same chromosome,<br />
interspersed with sequences unique to Gz. Field isolates <strong>of</strong><br />
Fo, although asexual, have either the MATI-1 or the MATI-2<br />
genes <strong>of</strong> sexual species and these are highly similar to those<br />
<strong>of</strong> heterothallic Gf. Apparent failure <strong>of</strong> Fo to reproduce<br />
sexually could not be attributed to defects in the MAT genes<br />
themselves. MAT organization in Gibberella/Fusarium forms<br />
the foundation for unraveling molecular mechanisms <strong>of</strong><br />
mating in fungi exhibiting non-standard mating behavior,<br />
e.g., Chromocrea spinulosa. Strains <strong>of</strong> this fungus are strictly<br />
heterothallic or are homothallic. Crosses <strong>of</strong> heterothallic by<br />
homothallic isolates, or selfs <strong>of</strong> homothallic isolates, yield<br />
50% heterothallic and 50% homothallic progeny. Compari-<br />
son <strong>of</strong> MAT from homothallic versus heterothallic strains<br />
will be useful in determining the mechanism by which both<br />
heterothallic and homothallic progeny are produced from a<br />
single homothallic progenitor. Symposium Presentation
"VADELL, EDUARDO M.' AND CAVENDER, JAMES<br />
C.', 'Ciudad Universitaria, Buenos Aires, Argentina and<br />
2Department <strong>of</strong> Environmental and Plant Biology, Ohio<br />
University, Athens, OH 45701 USA. Dictyostelids from<br />
forest soils <strong>of</strong> Argentina.<br />
Twenty dictyostelid species, five <strong>of</strong> which are new, were<br />
recovered from soils <strong>of</strong> the subtropical forest <strong>of</strong> the Province<br />
<strong>of</strong> Misiones, Northern Argentina, which constitutes the first<br />
record for this country. Two main areas were sampled: the<br />
forest around the Iguazu Falls, mostly undisturbed, and the<br />
forest surrounding the Jesuitic Missions <strong>of</strong> Loreto and Santa<br />
Ana, built in the XVII century and destroyed almost two<br />
hundred years ago. <strong>The</strong>y are two forest environments in the<br />
Southern Hemisphere where dictyostelid diversity is very<br />
high. Descriptions <strong>of</strong> the new species are presented. Contrib-<br />
uted Presentation<br />
VAILLANCOURT, LISA J. Department <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology,<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Kentucky, S-305 AGSN, Lexington KY 40546<br />
USA. Glomerella: a sexually ambiguous fungus without<br />
Deer.<br />
<strong>The</strong> title borrows a quote from Dr. John Raper. Glomerella is<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
homothallic, but it also outcrosses frequently. Fertility seems Presentation<br />
to be genetically unstable so that most isolates are self-sterile<br />
or have only a low degree <strong>of</strong> self-fertility, and usually these<br />
isolates are cross-fertile with many other isolates. In both G.<br />
cingulata and G. graminicola cross-fertility appears to be<br />
regulated by more than one locus. Based on genetic analyses<br />
<strong>of</strong> G. cingulata from morning glory, Dr. Hany Wheeler<br />
proposed the unbalanced heterothallism hypothesis. This<br />
hypothesis states that complementation among mutations in<br />
the pathway for self-fertility controls cross-fertility in G.<br />
cingulata. Our recent work suggests that this hypothesis may<br />
also explain cross-fertility in G. graminicola. We have<br />
initiated a molecular analysis <strong>of</strong> fertility in the Glomerella<br />
fungi, and our preliminary studies indicate that both G.<br />
cingulata and G. graminicola may have typical ascomycete<br />
MAT-2 idiomorphs, although we do not know yet if these<br />
function in either self- or cross-fertility. Further studies are<br />
planned to elucidate the molecular nature <strong>of</strong> these and other<br />
genes controlling fertility and mating in these fungi, with<br />
special attention to their potential role in determining<br />
population structure and in the development <strong>of</strong> genetically<br />
isolated subpopulations with narrow host ranges. Symposium<br />
Presentation<br />
VELLINGA, ELSE C. National Herbarium <strong>of</strong> the Nether-<br />
lands, University Leiden Branch, Leiden, the Netherlands &<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant & Microbial Biology, University <strong>of</strong> California,<br />
Berkeley CA 94720 USA. Fungal diversity studies -<br />
recording and inventorying in Europe.<br />
Concern about decline <strong>of</strong> fungal species and deterioration <strong>of</strong><br />
habitats, and an intense desire to know the ever-shrinking<br />
natural world, have led to a wide array <strong>of</strong> fungal diversity<br />
studies in Europe, ranging from long-term, national recording<br />
projects to local in-depth inventories. <strong>The</strong> Dutch project<br />
is an exemplary model for many other national programs,<br />
and in the twenty years <strong>of</strong> its existence has resulted in an<br />
unprecedented total <strong>of</strong> one million records. Amateur and<br />
pr<strong>of</strong>essional mycologists participate in the program. Although<br />
no standardized sampling scheme has been applied,<br />
these data provide important information on species parameters,<br />
such as: distribution and abundance, spatial and<br />
temporal changes, and associated hosts. <strong>The</strong> results <strong>of</strong> smallscale<br />
inventories, vegetation studies or species monitoring<br />
projects are incorporated into the database <strong>of</strong> the long-term<br />
program. Linking the database with the Red Data List makes<br />
it possible to assign a mycological value to an area for the<br />
present and for the past. <strong>The</strong>se data serve as input to policy<br />
and management plans. Prerequisites for successful recording<br />
programs are central organization, checklists, a recording<br />
manual, continuity and feedback to participants. This applies<br />
to broad programs like the Dutch, French and German, to the<br />
Norwegian program that focuses on a limited number <strong>of</strong><br />
species, and to inventories <strong>of</strong> small areas. Symposium<br />
*VELLINGA, ELSE C. AND BRUNS, THOMAS D. Dept.<br />
<strong>of</strong> Plant & Microbial Biology, University <strong>of</strong> California,<br />
Berkeley CA 94720 USA. Phylogenetics <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Agaricaceae.<br />
Our goal is to achieve an integrated molecular and morpho-<br />
logical classification <strong>of</strong> the monophyletic family<br />
Agaricaceae. To approach this goal we obtained ITS 1&2 and<br />
LSU sequences from 200 morphologically studied collec-<br />
tions representing approximately 150 species selected from a<br />
global sample. Phylogenetic analyses <strong>of</strong> these data yield the<br />
following results: 1) Some species with identical morphol-<br />
ogy have different sequences; these differences sometimes<br />
correlate with geographic separation as in Lepiota<br />
ventriosospora. 2) Some morphologically defined species<br />
have identical or nearly identical ITS sequences; examples<br />
include species that are separated by differences in velum<br />
color. 3) Tribus Agariceae, originally based on spore color,<br />
forms one clade with Leucocoprineae; this shows that<br />
development <strong>of</strong> the velum universale and the structure <strong>of</strong> the<br />
trama are more important characters for classificarion than<br />
color and shape <strong>of</strong> the spores. 4) Low levels <strong>of</strong> molecular<br />
and morphological divergence among grassland inhabitants<br />
suggest that this habitat has only recently been colonized by<br />
the family. 5) A similarly low level <strong>of</strong> molecular divergence<br />
is present among Agaricus and Endoptychum indicating that<br />
the forming <strong>of</strong> secotioid basidiocarps is a recent evolutionary<br />
event. 6) Several genus descriptions have to be amended, as<br />
the genera are paraphyletic. Poster
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
"VILGALYS, RYTAS AND MONCALVO, JEAN MARC.<br />
Botany Department, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708<br />
mycologists. Symposium Presentation<br />
USA. A ribosomal DNA phylogeny - - - - <strong>of</strong> Pleurotus.<br />
Species <strong>of</strong> the oyster mushroom genus Pleurotus are important<br />
in forest communities as wood decomposers and<br />
destroyers <strong>of</strong> soil nematodes. Studies <strong>of</strong> nuclear rDNA<br />
phylogeny show Pleurotus to be a monophyletic sister group<br />
"WALKER, JOHN F., MILLER, ORSON K. JR.,<br />
SEMONES, SHAWN W., LEI, TOM, NILSEN, ERIK T.<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Biology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA<br />
24061, USA. Mycorrhization, light, and tree seedling<br />
productivity in Rhododendron maximum thickets.<br />
to the genus Hohenbeuhelia in the family Pleurotaceae. Here, Seedling biomass and mycorrhization (% root tips associated<br />
we report on molecular phylogenetic studies using a world and mycorrhizal ramification) are reduced in Rhododendron<br />
wide sample <strong>of</strong> Pleurotus species, including representatives maximum thickets (RmT), where light availability is also<br />
<strong>of</strong> 15 intersterility groups. Maximum parsimony analysis lower than similar locations without RmT. Both<br />
was employed using data for three different sequence regions mycorrhization and productivity <strong>of</strong> seedlings appear to<br />
(nuclear large-subunit rDNA, ITS region, and mitochondria1 increase with canopy openness, although in some cases, high<br />
small-subunit rDNA). Phylogenetic analysis supports several levels <strong>of</strong> colonization occur even under dense cover. Howhigher-level<br />
taxonomic groups including the ostreatus clade ever, differences in mycorrhization, and more importantly<br />
(P. ostreatus, P. pulmonarius, P. eryngii, P. populinus, P. seedling biomass, in vs. out <strong>of</strong> RmT, do not appear to be<br />
abieticola), the cystidiosus-australis clade (P. cystidiosus, P. related to light availability alone. Neither light nor mycorsmithii,<br />
P. australis), the djamor clade (P. cornucopiae, P. rhizal colonization levels sufficiently explain variation in<br />
djamor, P. calyptratus, P. agaves). Molecular phylogeny also seedling growth independently. When considering seedling<br />
indicates that several species belong to well isolated lin- growth, preliminary data suggests that interactions occur<br />
eages, including P. purpureoolivaceus, P. tuberregium, P. between these factors and the presence <strong>of</strong> RmT. Poor<br />
levis, and P. dryinus. A revised infrageneric taxonomy for seedling productivity in RmT, which is likely attributable to<br />
Pleurotus is proposed that differs in several respects from the the combined effects <strong>of</strong> reduced mycorrhizal colonization<br />
earlier classifications <strong>of</strong> Hilber (1982) and Singer (1986). and light availability, will be discussed. Contributed Presen-<br />
Contributed Presentation<br />
tation<br />
VOLK, THOMAS J. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biology, 3024 Cowley Hall,<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Wisconsin-La Crosse, La Crosse WI 54601<br />
USA. Using - the Internet to teach Mycology. -"<br />
<strong>The</strong> internet has changed the way many <strong>of</strong> us teach mycology.<br />
My web pages have prompted me (and many others) to<br />
develop electronic images for teaching class. I have at least<br />
1000 images <strong>of</strong> fungi online (http://www.wisc.edu/botany/<br />
WEAVER, MARK A.', VEDENYAPINA, ELENA2, AND<br />
KENERLEY, CHARLES M.' ' Texas A&M University<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology, College Station, TX 77843<br />
2Komarov Botanical Institute Russian Academy <strong>of</strong> Science,<br />
Saint Petersburg, Russia 197376. Persistence, fitness and<br />
competitiveness <strong>of</strong> a genetically modified biocontrol<br />
agent.<br />
fungi/volkmyco.html) and another 4000 fungal images on If genetically modified (GM) biocontrol agents are to be<br />
my computer, including about 900 images for teaching deployed in agroecosystems, they will interact with indigmedical<br />
mycology, acquired from John Rippon, A1 Rogers, enous micr<strong>of</strong>lora. In the case <strong>of</strong> Trichoderma virens, the<br />
and Tex Beneke. <strong>The</strong> images are available on the internet and transformant will likely also interact with established wild-<br />
CD-ROM for students to study at their leisure. <strong>The</strong>re are type populations <strong>of</strong> ?: virens. We have conducted experimany<br />
web sites now available with all kinds <strong>of</strong> information ments to evaluate the persistence, fitness and competitiveon<br />
fungi, including genetics, physiology, molecular biology, ness <strong>of</strong> a GM strain <strong>of</strong> ?: virens relative to its wild-type<br />
ecology, and systematics. Many researchers and teachers, parent strain. Our most closely studied GM strain is much<br />
especially in developing countries, do not have access to less fit than the parental strain, as determined independently<br />
books or journals in mycology, and the internet is a great in several studies in non-sterile field soil and in vitro. In a<br />
help to them. This talk will demonstrate some typical long-term study in soil we determined that while the GM<br />
assignments 1 give for my students to complete on the web. strain is much less fit, it is similarly persistent. We collected<br />
Online keys to fungi are becoming commonplace, and I evidence that the fungal population in soil was quite static<br />
encourage my students to use them in identifying their fungi over a long time period. After extended incubation in noncollections.<br />
Some instructors have proprietary web pages sterile soil the both strains quickly colonized introduced<br />
only accessible to their own students, but I have chosen to cotton roots. To study competitiveness we have developed<br />
make mine publicly available. <strong>The</strong>se materials benefit not two novel methods. One methodology explicitly tests the<br />
only my students, but, judging by the email 1 get, they also invasiveness <strong>of</strong> one strain in a medium previously colonized<br />
benefit people all over the world, including grade, high by a competing strain. <strong>The</strong>se experiments provided evidence<br />
school and college students, as well as non-pr<strong>of</strong>essional that the GM strain, while less fit, is surprisingly competitive.<br />
65
We also present an approach to partition population re-<br />
sponses into fitness and competitiveness components. This<br />
hypothesis-testing approach resolves the confounding effects<br />
<strong>of</strong> fitness and competitiveness. Contributed Presentation<br />
WELNSTEIN, RICHARD N.', *PFISTER, DONALD H.],<br />
ITURRIAGA, TERESA2. IFarlow Herbarium, Harvard<br />
University, Cambridge, MA 02138 USA, 2Depto. de Biologia<br />
de Organismos, Universidad Simon Bolivar, Sartenejas,<br />
Baruta, Venezuela. A monographic study <strong>of</strong> the genus<br />
Cookeina.<br />
Species <strong>of</strong> the genus Cookeina (Sarcoscyphaceae, Pezizales)<br />
are worldwide in distribution in tropical and subtropical<br />
areas. <strong>The</strong> species <strong>of</strong> the genus are large and obvious and are<br />
frequently collected by specialists and non-specialists alike.<br />
Features <strong>of</strong> the genus, such as simultaneous maturation <strong>of</strong><br />
the asci within single apothecia, distinctive constricted ascus<br />
bases, paraphyses which anastomoze to form a network<br />
around the asci, tend to set it apart from other members <strong>of</strong><br />
the Sarcoscyphaceae. In the commonly recognized species<br />
there is a high degree <strong>of</strong> variation in size and color <strong>of</strong> the<br />
ascomata. We have reviewed the approximately 40 epithets<br />
applied in the genus and have recognized 7 species based on<br />
morphology and analysis <strong>of</strong> the rRNA ITS region. Molecular<br />
data have shown that the tribe Boedijnopezizeae is supported<br />
and encompasses species <strong>of</strong> Cookeina and Microstoma.<br />
Boedijnopeziza, formerly considered to include a single<br />
species B. insititia, is nested within the genus Cookeina. Use<br />
<strong>of</strong> certain characters, such as the presence or absence <strong>of</strong><br />
distinctive gelatinous apothecial layers and spore ornamentation<br />
characters, has been justified. Assumptions about<br />
biogeographical patterns <strong>of</strong> distribution have been questioned<br />
based on the similarities <strong>of</strong> ITS sequences from<br />
collections from around the world. Contributed Presentation<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
and that morphological and developmental characters used to<br />
delineate genera and higher level categories need to be<br />
reassessed. Contributed Presentation<br />
WESTFALL, PATRICK AND MOMANY, MICHELLE.<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Botany, University <strong>of</strong> Georgia; Athens GA<br />
30602 USA. Analysis <strong>of</strong> Septins in Aspergillus nidulans<br />
Growing and dividing cells need a mechanism to partition<br />
their cellular contents between a mother and daughter cell.<br />
This is a two-part process in which the cell first decides<br />
where it is going to divide, then distributes the appropriate<br />
cytoplasmic and nuclear contents between the two cells. <strong>The</strong><br />
septin family <strong>of</strong> proteins mark the cleavage plane and serve<br />
as a scaffold for other proteins involved in cytokinesis.<br />
Originally discovered in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, septins<br />
have also been found and studied in numerous other organisms<br />
such as fruit flies, mice, and humans. In S. cerevisiae,<br />
septins were first described as a series <strong>of</strong> lOnm filamentous<br />
rings found at the neck <strong>of</strong> a budding cell. It has been demonstrated<br />
that they play a role in such processes as cytokinesis,<br />
bud site selection, polarity establishment, and spore formation.<br />
At this time not much is known about septins in<br />
filamentous fungi. Five septin homologues have been found<br />
in the filamentous fungus, Aspergillus nidulans. <strong>The</strong> current<br />
project focuses on the characterization <strong>of</strong> one <strong>of</strong> these, aspB.<br />
Null alleles <strong>of</strong> aspB are lethal. aspB protein has been<br />
localized to septa, asexual reproductive structures, and areas<br />
<strong>of</strong> emerging growth. Efforts are currently underway to<br />
generate a conditional mutant allele <strong>of</strong> aspB to further<br />
elucidate the proteinis role in cytokinesis and branch point<br />
initiation. Contributed Presentation<br />
WHISLER, HOWARD C. University <strong>of</strong> Washington.<br />
Developmental control <strong>of</strong> Coelomomyces stegomyiae.<br />
In the absence <strong>of</strong> axenic cultures, C. stegomyiae is proving to<br />
AND BLACKWELL, M.2 lSUNY<br />
Environmental Science and Syracuse NY 13210<br />
USA, 2Department <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences, Louisiana State<br />
University, Baton Rouge LA 70803 USA. Subtribes <strong>of</strong><br />
Laboulbeniales.<br />
be the species <strong>of</strong> choice for experimental studies with these<br />
obligate parasites <strong>of</strong> mosquitoes and crustaceans. <strong>The</strong> fungus<br />
easily passes through its life cycle in a petri dish, and the<br />
host arthropods are readily maintained in the laboratory. This<br />
paper reports on efforts to further define and synchronize the<br />
Roland Thaxter, in his enduring work on the taxonomy <strong>of</strong> the major events in the development <strong>of</strong> the fungus, emphasizing<br />
Laboulbeniales, emphasized antheridial characters as the germination <strong>of</strong> the resistant sporangium and dark-gated<br />
basis for a higher level classification <strong>of</strong> the group. However, gametogenesis. In contrast to other species <strong>of</strong> the genus, C.<br />
this practice met with serious problems because antheridia stegomyiae resists synchronized induction <strong>of</strong> meiosis and<br />
are unknown in a significant number <strong>of</strong> taxa. More recently, zoospore formation. This character extends infectivity in<br />
Tavares (1985) used characters based on perithecium small containers as visited by Aedes aegypti , but the factors<br />
development to help categorize species within higher level controlling the process are not understood. Gametogenesis in<br />
taxa. Here we present preliminary results based on molecular Coelomomyces is triggered by a dark period prior to differendata<br />
for a number <strong>of</strong> genera within the large and heteroge- tiation <strong>of</strong> the gametes. <strong>The</strong> actual time interval between the<br />
neous subtribe Stigmatomycetinae defined by Tavares. Our dark trigger and gamete release relates to the particular<br />
results indicate that some <strong>of</strong> the taxa currently placed within species <strong>of</strong> Coelomomyces involved. C. stegomyiae undergoes<br />
Stigmatomycetinae, in particular members <strong>of</strong> the genera gametogenesis in its copepod host approximately 23.5 hrs.<br />
Stigmatomyces and Hesperomyces, are not closely related after onset <strong>of</strong> darkness, which in its tropical habitat, would<br />
66
e just prior to night fall. How this might be controlled or<br />
how it might relate to the behavior <strong>of</strong> the mosquito may be<br />
approached with in-vivo cultures <strong>of</strong> this fungus. Contributed<br />
Presentation<br />
*WHITE, MERLIN M.', LICHTWARDT, ROBERT W.'<br />
AND COLBO, MURRAY H.2. 'Department <strong>of</strong> Ecology &<br />
Evolutionary Biology, University <strong>of</strong> Kansas, Lawrence,<br />
Kansas 66045 USA, 2Department <strong>of</strong> Biology, Memorial<br />
University, St. John s, Newfoundland A1B 3x9 Canada.<br />
Rediscovery <strong>of</strong> a fungal pathogen <strong>of</strong> blackflies in Canada.<br />
During a survey and examination <strong>of</strong> blackfly (Simuliidae)<br />
populations from Newfoundland, Canada where we were<br />
seeking ovarian cysts (Trichomycetes), we discovered the<br />
onset <strong>of</strong> an epizootic. Only one population from two sites<br />
along one drainage system, among several populations<br />
surveyed, were infected with an Entomophthorales fungal<br />
pathogen. Infected blackflies did not exhibit any unusual<br />
behavior. <strong>The</strong> fungal pathogen was apparent as irregularly<br />
shaped and branching thalli, initially growing as swollen<br />
hyphal bodies within the body cavity <strong>of</strong> dissected adults.<br />
Infected flies, incubated overnight in moist chambers, were<br />
rapidly consumed by the fungus whose hyphae filled the<br />
body cavity as evidenced by the emergence <strong>of</strong> conidiophores<br />
growing out <strong>of</strong> abdominal intersegmental membranes as well<br />
as around the thorax and head. Rapid conidial development<br />
and ejection was typical in almost all incubated blackflies.<br />
Several axenic isolates were obtained. We believe the<br />
epizootic in Newfoundland was caused by the same fungal<br />
agent reported ten years ago in blackflies from Quebec,<br />
Canada. <strong>The</strong> Quebec report listed the pathogen as<br />
Entomophaga near limoniae (Keller) [E. limoniae Batkoa<br />
major (Thaxter) Humber]. At the present time we are unable<br />
to make a positive species identification based on the<br />
material collected, subject to further investigation. Poster<br />
*WIEST, ARIC E.', EBBOLE, DANIEL J.', KENERLEY,<br />
CHARLES M.', BODO, BERNARD2 'Texas A&M Department<br />
<strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology, College Station, TX 77843 USA,<br />
2Laboratoire de Chimie du Museum Histoire Naturelle,<br />
CNRS URA 401 63 rue Buffon 75005 Paris. Cloning <strong>of</strong> a<br />
gene encoding a peptide synthetase responsible for the<br />
production <strong>of</strong> peptaibols in Trichoderma virens.<br />
Peptaibols are short linear peptides (7-20 residues) that have<br />
been shown to exhibit antimicrobial activity. Peptaibols<br />
contain a high proportion <strong>of</strong> the modified amino acid alpha-<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
<strong>The</strong> sequenced portion <strong>of</strong> the gene has high similarity at the<br />
amino acid level to many other peptide synthetase genes<br />
from other fungi and consists <strong>of</strong> a single open reading frame<br />
extending throughout 25 kilobases. Based on our finding that<br />
an 18 residue peptaibol is produced by T virens, we predict<br />
that the peptide synthetase gene extends over approximately<br />
60kb, encoding a single open reading frame <strong>of</strong> about 20,000<br />
amino acid residues. Disruption <strong>of</strong> this gene causes the<br />
elimination <strong>of</strong> peptaibol production but does not affect<br />
synthesis <strong>of</strong> gliotoxin. This research presents the first cloned<br />
gene responsible for production <strong>of</strong> a peptaibol as well as the<br />
first peptide synthetase gene cloned from Trichodemza.<br />
Contributed Presentation<br />
WIDDEN, P. Biology Department, Concordia University,<br />
Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Does mycorrhizal morphology<br />
in the Liliifloreae reflect phylogeny?<br />
<strong>The</strong> morphology <strong>of</strong> the intraradical phase <strong>of</strong> a number <strong>of</strong><br />
species within the Liliifloreae has been described by many<br />
authors. Both my data and that <strong>of</strong> other authors reveals that<br />
the morphology may be very varied from one species to<br />
another. Arum series and Paris series mycorrhizae have been<br />
described from many species <strong>of</strong> Liliiforeae, but, I have<br />
described mycorrhizae from Medeola and Clintonia that do<br />
not easilly fit either <strong>of</strong> these series. Whereas the Malanthiales<br />
have not been studied, there appears to be a remarkable<br />
consistency in the data for VAM morphology among the<br />
orders for which data are available. <strong>The</strong> Burmaniales appear<br />
to largely be a group <strong>of</strong> mycoheterotrophs which have<br />
glomalean symbionts. In the Asparagales, all species appear<br />
to have an Arum series mycorrhiza, in the Diascoreales the<br />
morphology is close to the Paris series. A number <strong>of</strong> species<br />
in the Liliales which have been studied in my laboratory,<br />
plus Colchicum and Diaspora, show a similar morphology to<br />
that described for Clintonia and Medeola. Contributed<br />
Presentation<br />
*WIKLER, KAREN', RADEMACHER, MATT,<br />
CZEDERPILTZ, DANIEL L. LINDNER2, MICALES,<br />
JESSIE A.', VOLK, THOMAS', HADAR, YITZHAK4.<br />
'Dept. <strong>of</strong> Biology, Univ. <strong>of</strong> WI, La Crosse WI 54601 USA,<br />
2Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology, Univ, <strong>of</strong> WI, Madison WI 53705<br />
USA, 3Center for Forest Mycology, USDA , Madison WI<br />
53705 USA, 4Dept. <strong>of</strong> Microbiology, Hebrew Univ., Rehovot<br />
76100 Israel. Biodiversity <strong>of</strong> wood-inhabiting fungi in<br />
Israel pine forests.<br />
aminoisobutyric acid (Aib). <strong>The</strong> structure <strong>of</strong> peptaibols During the twentieth century the Jewish National Fund (JNF)<br />
suggests synthesis by a nonribosomal peptide synthetase. has planted more than 200 million trees in Israel. <strong>The</strong>se<br />
Peptide synthetases are characterized by an ordered modular newly developing forests provide a unique opportunity to<br />
arrangement with each module responsible for the addition study the development <strong>of</strong> fungal communities. This study<br />
<strong>of</strong> one amino acid in the polypeptide. We have identified a was initiated to quantify species richness and abundance <strong>of</strong><br />
novel peptaibol from 7: virens and a cloned a portion <strong>of</strong> a wood-inhabiting corticiod and polypore fungi in two age<br />
putative peptide synthetase gene responsible for its synthesis. classes <strong>of</strong> the JNF forests in central Israel. Six even-aged<br />
67
forest stands, dominated by Pinus halepensis, were selected<br />
as sampling sites. Three <strong>of</strong> the stands were five to 15 years<br />
<strong>of</strong> age, and three were 30 to 45 years <strong>of</strong> age. Each stand was<br />
sampled by running eight transect lines radiating from a<br />
central point, and establishing two clusters <strong>of</strong> five 25 square<br />
meter plots along each line, for a total sampling area <strong>of</strong> 2000<br />
square meters per site. <strong>The</strong> sampling methodololgy was<br />
designed to measure patterns in diversity at local and<br />
landscape levels, as well as to investigate autocorrelation at<br />
different spatial scales. Poster<br />
*WU, CHI-GUANG AND LIN, S.-C. 189 Chung-Cheng<br />
Rd., Wufeng, Taichung, Taiwan 4 1301. Devlopment <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Paris-type mycorrhiza in lilies.<br />
An unique development <strong>of</strong> vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhiza<br />
<strong>of</strong> lily (Lilium oriental hybrid "Casa Blanca") associated<br />
with Glomus intraradices, G. pansihalos, and Entrophospora<br />
kentinensis is described. <strong>The</strong>se glomalean fungi entered lily<br />
roots through root hairs or epidermal cells with an<br />
appresorium. Infective hyphae formed hyphal coils in<br />
epidermal or hypodermal cells and then produced an anchor-<br />
like structure next to the cell that was to be pentrated. In the<br />
inner region <strong>of</strong> cortex, arbuscules were initiated by a<br />
sympodial structure (or a string <strong>of</strong> hyphal branches) which<br />
was differentiated further into hyphal coils, through which<br />
delicate branches grew and ramified. This is a typical Paris-<br />
type intercalary arbuscule. Arbuscular formation could be<br />
successive. Arbuscule were initiated from the sympodial<br />
structures through which infective hyphae extended into<br />
neighboring cells. Regrowth <strong>of</strong> the internal hyphal system<br />
was triggered along the main hyphal axis by forming<br />
haustoria-like branches below anchor-like structures and<br />
from sympodial structures. This speeded colonization<br />
extensively along the root axis. Through the whole process<br />
<strong>of</strong> lily mycorrhizal colonization, the infective structures were<br />
highly specialized in their morphology and function as the<br />
infection proceeds. <strong>The</strong> separation <strong>of</strong> Paris- and Arum-type<br />
mycorrhiza was suggested on the basis <strong>of</strong> arbuscular<br />
formation. Contributed Presentation<br />
WUBAH, DANIEL A. AND LEVIN, SAM. Towson<br />
University. Recent advances in the study <strong>of</strong> anaerobic<br />
zoosporic fungi.<br />
Facultative anaerobes are found in the order Blastocladiales,<br />
but fungi in the Neocallimasticales are the only types that are<br />
obligately anaerobic. Of the five genera found in the order<br />
Neocallimasticaceae, two produce multiflagellate zoospores<br />
and the other three produce uniflagellate zoospores. Since<br />
the discovery <strong>of</strong> this unique group <strong>of</strong> zoosporic fungi, there<br />
has been increasing interest in their characteristics and their<br />
role in a fiber digestion in herbivores. <strong>The</strong>y serve as primary<br />
invaders <strong>of</strong> forage fiber and interact with rumen eubacteria<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
and methanogens to ferment cellulose and hemicellulose to<br />
fatty acids and methane. <strong>The</strong>ir activities result in a weakened<br />
residue that is more amenable to digestion by bacteria and<br />
protozoa. To date, seventeen species <strong>of</strong> these fungi have been<br />
described. In recent years, most <strong>of</strong> the studies have been<br />
geared towards identifying novel genes from these fungi that<br />
can be used for commercial purposes. However, our knowl-<br />
edge about their biology is still at a rudimentary stage. This<br />
talk would discuss recent advances in our understanding <strong>of</strong><br />
the development and physiological characteristics <strong>of</strong> species<br />
obtained from host animals as well as free-living isolates.<br />
Symposium Presentation<br />
ZAK, J. C. Ecology program, Department <strong>of</strong> Biological<br />
Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA.<br />
Understanding <strong>The</strong> Functional Component <strong>of</strong> Fungal<br />
Biodiversity.<br />
<strong>The</strong> full understanding <strong>of</strong> the activities <strong>of</strong> fungal assemblages<br />
in terrestrial ecosystems can only be achieved when<br />
taxonomic diversity is integrated with genetic and functional<br />
information. Although fungi are recognized as critical for<br />
the functioning <strong>of</strong> most terrestrial ecosystems, there have<br />
been no studies that have examined what aspects <strong>of</strong> fungal<br />
biodiversity (species richness, species composition, or the<br />
number <strong>of</strong> functional roles) islare responsible for emergent<br />
ecosystem properties. <strong>The</strong> difficulty with addressing the<br />
relationships between ecosystem process and function is due<br />
in large part to our inability to evaluate fungal functional<br />
diversity in a quantitative manner. Previous assessments <strong>of</strong><br />
fungal functional diversity using the abilities <strong>of</strong> selected<br />
fungi to use simple sugars, cellulose, and lignin and other<br />
recalcitrant plant materials have provided a general model<br />
for fungal; development on decomposing plant litter.<br />
However, unless heavily disturbed, most terrestrial ecosystems<br />
contain a range <strong>of</strong> fungi that are able to metabolize<br />
these broad categories <strong>of</strong> compounds, providing poor<br />
resolving power to determine landscape patterns in ecosystem<br />
processes and associated fungal assemblages. This talk<br />
will examine current approaches to fungal functional<br />
diversity, and will attempt to provide an ecosystem context in<br />
which fungal functional diversity can be evaluated and<br />
understood. Symposium Presentation<br />
ZAK, J., SOBEK, E., COX, S., AND DOBRANIC, J.<br />
Ecology Program, Department <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences, Texas<br />
Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA. Fungal Functional<br />
Diversity: A Landscape Perspective.<br />
Although fungi are recognized as critical to ecosystem<br />
functioning it is not apparent if differences in ecosystem<br />
processes across landscapes reflect differences in fungal<br />
species composition, species richness, functional diversity,<br />
combinations <strong>of</strong> the three, or the degree to which abiotic and
iotic factors regulate fungal activities. To address these<br />
issues we have begun examining spatial and temporal<br />
differences in functional diversity <strong>of</strong> soil fungi using the<br />
FungiLog microplate assay within four landscapes: 1) Pine<br />
Canyon Watershed-Big Bend NP: Chihuahuan Desert, 2)<br />
Luquillo Experimental Forest-PR: tropical forest, 3) Noland<br />
Divide Watershed-Great Smoky Mountains NP: spruce-fir,<br />
and 4) West Twin Creeks Watershed-Olympic NP: Douglas-<br />
fir and silver fir. Within each <strong>of</strong> these landscapes fungal<br />
functional diversity is assessed along an elevational gradient.<br />
Within the Chihuahuan Desert, fungal functional diversity is<br />
tightly linked to elevation, vegetation type, and moisture.<br />
However, at the Great Smoky site, fungal functional diver-<br />
sity does not change with elevation, although vegetation type<br />
does. <strong>The</strong> Olympic and Luquillo sites are currently being<br />
assessed. Our goals in this research effort are to understand<br />
how functional diversity varies within and across landscapes<br />
and to determine the underlying mechanisms that account for<br />
functional diversity patterns <strong>of</strong> soil fungi. Contributed<br />
Presentation<br />
*ZELLER, KURT A., BOWDEN, ROBERT L. AND<br />
LESLIE, JOHN F. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology, Kansas State<br />
University. AFLP Diversity <strong>of</strong> Fusarium graminearum<br />
(Gibberella zeae) epidemic populations.<br />
We sampled approximately fifty wheat heads from separate<br />
0.25 square meter quadrats in Kansas in 1993, and in North<br />
Dakota in 1994, during wheat scab epidemics. We recovered<br />
Fusarium isolates from the top, middle, and bottom spikelets<br />
<strong>of</strong> each head. In both locations, we identified 90% <strong>of</strong> isolates<br />
recovered as E graminearum (G. zeae). In both quadrats,<br />
banding patterns showed that more than one multi-locus<br />
genotype had colonized most heads. Also, several multi-<br />
locus genotypes appeared on more than one head, indicating<br />
secondary infection may be important in epidemic years. We<br />
had previously characterized VCG (vegetative compatibility<br />
groups) for a subset <strong>of</strong> these isolates, and each VCG type<br />
characterized among those isolates was represented by only a<br />
single AFLP genotype. Allele frequencies in the two quadrats<br />
across 94 AFLP loci were very similar, resulting in an<br />
estimate <strong>of</strong> GST 0.0074 (Nm 67. l), and an estimate <strong>of</strong><br />
population similarity approaching identity. This suggests<br />
little genetic differentiation for this species over large<br />
distances in the Great Plains region. Poster<br />
*ZELLER, KURT A.I, EL-ASSIUTY, ELHAMY M.? AND<br />
LESLIE, JOHN F.' IDept. <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology, Kansas State<br />
Universtiy, 2Plant Pathology Research Inst., Agricultural<br />
Research Ctr., Giza, Egypt. Relative colonization ability<br />
between lineages <strong>of</strong> Cephalosporium maydis.<br />
Cephalosporium maydis causes late wilt <strong>of</strong> maize in Egypt.<br />
We recently determined that four genetic lineages <strong>of</strong> C.<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
maydis dominate populations in Egyptian fields. We tested<br />
representatives <strong>of</strong> these four lineages (lineages I - IV) for<br />
their competitive ability to colonize pot-grown maize under<br />
greenhouse conditions. We incorporated strains from all four<br />
lineages into soil before planting. After 5 weeks growth, we<br />
scored the plants weekly for disease symptoms. At these<br />
intervals, we collected diseased plants and recovered isolates<br />
<strong>of</strong> C. maydis. In two replicates <strong>of</strong> this experiment, we<br />
recovered isolates from lineage I1 from 80.5 and 63.2% <strong>of</strong><br />
the diseased plants, isolates from lineage I from 13.8 and<br />
8.2% <strong>of</strong> the diseased plants, and isolates from lineage I11<br />
from 11.1 and 28.6% <strong>of</strong> the diseased plants. We did not<br />
recover lineage IV isolates in either replication <strong>of</strong> this<br />
experiment. We recovered isolates from more than one<br />
lineage from 2-3 plants from each replication. <strong>The</strong>se results<br />
suggest that the four lineages are not equivalent in their<br />
pathogenicity to maize. Poster<br />
*ZELLER, KURT A. AND LESLIE, JOHN F. Dept. <strong>of</strong> Plant<br />
Pathology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS. AFLPs<br />
for distinguishing populations and species <strong>of</strong> Fusarium.<br />
Species and populations within the genus Fusarium have<br />
been differentiated with various markers (e.g., morphology,<br />
vegetative compatibility groups, isozymes, RAPDs, and gene<br />
sequences). We have used AFLPs to assess genetic variation<br />
within and between Fusarium species. UPGMA similarity <strong>of</strong><br />
AFLP pr<strong>of</strong>iles between any two isolates from the same<br />
species appears to be 65%, and between species usually<br />
~35%. AFLPs provide a source for identifying speciesspecific<br />
bands that can be used to develop rapid species<br />
identification techniques. AFLPs also provide an alternate<br />
way <strong>of</strong> sampling across the genome when compared to<br />
sequencing <strong>of</strong> specific target genes. AFLPs sample a greater<br />
portion <strong>of</strong> the genome in less detail, but allow detection <strong>of</strong> a<br />
continuum <strong>of</strong> distances between populations and species that<br />
may be missed with sequencing. In addition, AFLP markers<br />
generally behave in a Mendelian fashion, can be used in<br />
generating detailed linkage maps, and specific markers can<br />
be used in detailed studies <strong>of</strong> linkage disequilibrium. We<br />
have been using these markers to examine instances <strong>of</strong><br />
intercontinental hybridization. We also have identified<br />
biologically coherent strain sets from among unidentified<br />
isolates causing mango malformation, and from field<br />
populations <strong>of</strong> maize, sorghum, millet, and native prairie<br />
grasses. Contributed Presentation
*ZHANG, NING AND BLACKWELL, MEREDITH.<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences, Louisiana State Univer-<br />
sity, LA 70803, USA. Molecular phylogeny <strong>of</strong> dogwood<br />
anthracnose fungus and the Diaporthales.<br />
Dogwood anthracnose, caused by Discula destructiva, is a<br />
disease <strong>of</strong> several native dogwood species in North <strong>America</strong>.<br />
<strong>The</strong> teleomorph has not been found since the first reports <strong>of</strong><br />
disease in the 1970s. Phylogenetic analyses based on nuclear<br />
small subunit rDNA sequence <strong>of</strong> 46 perithecial ascomycetes<br />
placed D. destructiva into the Diaporthales with high<br />
bootstrap value. A phylogeny <strong>of</strong> 20 diaporthalean species<br />
based on large subunit rDNA inferred three major groups in<br />
the Diaporthales. Discula destructiva and four other Discula<br />
species formed a clade with Plagiostorna euphorbiae,<br />
Gnomonia padicola, G. setacea, Pleuroceras pleurostylum,<br />
Linospora capreae, Amphiporthe castanea, Apioplagiostoma<br />
aceriferum, Melanconis marginalis, and Apiosporopsis<br />
carpinea. Its sister group included Cryphonectria parasitica,<br />
Cryptodiaporthe corni, Endothia eugeniae, Valsa ambiens<br />
subspecies leucostomoides, and Apiognomonia supraseptata.<br />
This clade is characterized by the presence <strong>of</strong> anthraquinones<br />
and a KOH+ color reaction. Diaporthe phaseolorum formed<br />
a basal and distinct branch. Characters <strong>of</strong> pigmentation and<br />
anamorph agree with the phylogeny and emphasize the<br />
importance <strong>of</strong> anamorphs and pigmentation in the taxonomy<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Diaporthales. Family concepts based on perithecium<br />
position, ascus persistence, and ascospore morphology were<br />
rejected, and a new phylogenetic classification may be<br />
needed. Poster<br />
MSA 2000 - - ABSTRACTS<br />
0 David Sime 1999<br />
*ZHONG, ZHIHONG, PFISTER, DONALD, H. Farlow<br />
Herbarium, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138<br />
USA. From apothecial color to ITS rDNA sequences -<br />
approaches to classification and phylogeny in Leotia<br />
species.<br />
In 1908 Durand recognized three species <strong>of</strong> Leotia<br />
(Leotiaceae) based on the combinations <strong>of</strong> colors exhibited<br />
by the pileus and stipe. This distinction has been accepted by<br />
many mycologists, but there are still arguments about it. In<br />
this study we investigated whether apothecial color is a<br />
reliable character in the classification <strong>of</strong> species <strong>of</strong> Leotia.<br />
<strong>The</strong> phylogeny is inferred using ITS rDNA sequencing <strong>of</strong> the<br />
three color-defined species <strong>of</strong> Leotia. Maximum parsimony<br />
using PAUP generates a single tree, which is identical to the<br />
one using the maximum likelihood method. Five collections<br />
<strong>of</strong> Leotia viscosa from the US and China form a well-<br />
supported monophyletic group. Collections <strong>of</strong> Leotia lubrica<br />
from different parts <strong>of</strong> the US group together, and form a<br />
sister clade to Leotia viscosa. <strong>The</strong> three collections <strong>of</strong> Leotia<br />
atrovirens from the US and China fail to group together, but<br />
they are all basal to Leotia viscosa and Leotia lubrica.<br />
Species <strong>of</strong> Leotia form a well-supported monophyletic<br />
group. Micro-morphological characters are limited in these<br />
three morphologically similar species. <strong>The</strong> tissue morphol-<br />
ogy in stipe seems to be phylogenetically useful. In general,<br />
the phylogeny inferred from ITS sequences supports the use<br />
<strong>of</strong> color distinction in the classification <strong>of</strong> Leotia species, but<br />
places species <strong>of</strong> Leotia in a monophyletic group that also<br />
contains species <strong>of</strong> Microglossum. Poster
L.. m 1<br />
MYCOLOGICAL NEWS<br />
MASMC 2000: 1)Kirtrh~rl~ Ueorr 2)G,z~
MYCOLOGICAL NEWS continued<br />
-<br />
M~rnhe~s<br />
island (leji to riglrt): Rod Sc,plwlt, Gaty Lrrlrrserz,<br />
Peter Jolmston, Eric McKenzie, Hal B~rrdsall, Mark<br />
B~rllians (on ento~nologist from New Zealand), Rich<br />
Lc,sclzen (another entomologist front New Zealand),<br />
Eric Edwards (a representative <strong>of</strong> New Zealand's<br />
Deportment <strong>of</strong> Conservation), orrd Steve ,<br />
Stephenson. 5 -<br />
Steve Stephenson, Gary Laursen, 5<br />
and Hal Burdsall from the United 6<br />
States, along with Peter Johnston and<br />
Eric McKenzie from Landcare Research<br />
in New Zealand, and Rod GUI-y<br />
Seppelt from the Australian Antarctic<br />
- -<br />
Division, participated in a scientific<br />
expedition to two <strong>of</strong> the subantarctic<br />
islands in the Southern Ocean south <strong>of</strong><br />
Htrl R~rrt/.strll c~ollrc~tirr:/ror,y~ on C'trr~rl~hc,//<br />
/,~I~II~~/.<br />
New Zealand during March <strong>of</strong> 2000.<br />
Members <strong>of</strong> the expedition, which was<br />
funded by a grant from the National<br />
Science Foundation, spent two weeks<br />
surveying the fungi on remote<br />
Campbell Island and made a brief visit<br />
to the Auckland Islands. <strong>The</strong>se islands<br />
are biologically sensitive areas that are<br />
designated as World Heritage sites<br />
<strong>Mycological</strong> Research News<br />
Peripatetic Mycology<br />
because they serve as major nesting<br />
grounds for oceanic birds and mammals,<br />
have been little disturbed by man,<br />
been moved from the Museum Building<br />
to the Plant Studies Center (httD://<br />
www.nYbg.org/bsci/const/). Since the<br />
and are home to species <strong>of</strong> plants and first specimens were moved on 9<br />
animals found nowhere else in the December 1999, all specimens and<br />
world. Previous explorations carried cabinets from the 6th floor museum,<br />
out over a period <strong>of</strong> 145 years had nearly all from the 4th floor museum,<br />
recorded only 27 species <strong>of</strong> fungi from and about one-fourth from the 2nd floor<br />
Campbell Island. During this latest museum have been moved to the 3rd<br />
expedition, the first <strong>of</strong> its type in the and 5"' floors <strong>of</strong> the PSC. All cabinets<br />
New Zealand subantarctic, more than and specimens are in place on the 3rd<br />
200 species were collected from the and 5th floors <strong>of</strong> the PSC. See 'Six<br />
island, and a number <strong>of</strong> these appear to Million-Plus Plants on the Move'<br />
qf tlre ,scierztific o.vl,crlitio~~ to Clrnrphrll be new to science.<br />
(http://www.nvbg.org/~r/<br />
herbmove.htm) in the 'What's New'<br />
section <strong>of</strong> the Garden's website (http://<br />
www.nyb~.org) for a description and<br />
images <strong>of</strong> the Move."<br />
~nrrrsrn (I($) ~ I IS~CIY I ~ ~tephc~~~.sorr trt /Ire<br />
I~i,plrest poirrt (570 m) on CampbellI.sla~i~i.<br />
Six million herbarium collections<br />
being moved "by hand" by Drs<br />
Barbara Thiers and Roy Halling were<br />
featured on National Public Radio's<br />
March 2 Morning Edition. Both<br />
Barbara, said to regard peering at<br />
bryophytes through a microscope as a<br />
"good time", and Roy, portrayed as<br />
stoically enduring cold, wet, and mud<br />
in pursuit <strong>of</strong> Colombian rainforest<br />
fungal prizes, were interviewed as they<br />
oversaw the transfer <strong>of</strong> specimens from<br />
the old New York Botanical Garden<br />
fungus herbarium to the new, state-<strong>of</strong>the-art<br />
Plant Studies Center featured in<br />
the March-April Mycology Online. Roy<br />
adds, "Lest you think otherwise, Barb<br />
and I weren't the only ones moving<br />
specimens, and we used 2-3 13pigeonhole,<br />
counter-height herbarium<br />
cases on wheels (no doors). All fungi<br />
and lichens are now moved. Approx<br />
55-60% <strong>of</strong> the WHOLE herbarium has<br />
72<br />
<strong>The</strong> GSMNP-ATBI Diaries<br />
<strong>The</strong> Great Smoky Mountain<br />
National Park - All-Taxa Biological<br />
Inventory, now in its second year, is<br />
well underway. Most collections<br />
gathered by the "Asheville Volunteer<br />
Fungal Department" on the 1999<br />
Macr<strong>of</strong>ungal Pilot transect ("Butterflies<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Soil") have now been sent to<br />
experts even as several new researchers<br />
prepare to sample diverse Park habitats<br />
during the late spring and summer.<br />
Following are three important an-<br />
nouncements:<br />
(i) <strong>The</strong>re will be a Fungal TWIG<br />
organizational meeting <strong>of</strong> scientists<br />
during the MSA 2000 Annual<br />
Meeting in Vermont. As <strong>of</strong> this<br />
writing, it appears that the meeting<br />
will probably be held 'lhesday<br />
evening, August 1, probably between<br />
7 and 9 PM. Definite times will be<br />
posted in the next Inoculum. All<br />
interested scientists are invited to<br />
attend.<br />
(ii) Lorelei Norvell will be conclud-<br />
ing her term as Coordinator <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Fungal TWIG in August, although<br />
she plans to continue to serve the<br />
TWIG both as agaric specialist and
advisor. Because <strong>of</strong> budgetary and<br />
time constraints, she suggests that it<br />
might be more effective to split<br />
Kingdom Fungi into several smaller<br />
taxonomic working groups. All those<br />
wishing to assume the helm (or<br />
helms) are encouraged to contact<br />
Lorelei (lorelei @ teleport.com) as<br />
soon as possible so as to facilitate a<br />
smooth transition.<br />
(iii) <strong>The</strong> large shoes <strong>of</strong> TWIG<br />
Macr<strong>of</strong>ungal Coordinator Rod<br />
'hlloss also need filling. <strong>The</strong> hardy<br />
band <strong>of</strong> parataxonomists known as<br />
the "Asheville Volunteer Fungal<br />
Department" would welcome<br />
guidance and direction. Anyone<br />
wishing to volunteer please contact<br />
Lorelei (lorelei @ televort.com)<br />
immediately.<br />
Carolyn Shearer sampled various<br />
aquatic habitats as she passed through<br />
the Park on her way to Gatlinburg,<br />
where she represented (with Jim<br />
Johnson and Anathea Brooks) the<br />
Fungal TWIG at the December 1999<br />
DLIA science meeting. <strong>The</strong> photo at<br />
right shows Helicoma perelegans, one<br />
<strong>of</strong> the fungi Dr Shearer isolated from<br />
submerged wood<br />
Fungal Books on Sale via MSA<br />
Protocols for An All Taxa Biodiversity<br />
Inventory <strong>of</strong> Fungi is now available on<br />
Fusar2lcm Laboratory Workshop<br />
Three international Fusarium experts<br />
(Australia's Lester Burgess, South<br />
Africa'sWalter Marasas, and <strong>America</strong>'s<br />
John Leslie) will lead this workshop<br />
June 1 1 - 16,2000 at Kansas State in<br />
Manhattan Kansas. Participants will be<br />
introduced to standard morphological<br />
and genetic techniques used to identify<br />
and characterize strains <strong>of</strong> Fusarium.<br />
Particpants will learn to use morpho-<br />
logical characters to identify the most<br />
MYCOLOGICAL NEWS mtbed<br />
H~licoma perelegnns from the Si~iokies<br />
the web -- A standard set <strong>of</strong> techniques<br />
for sampling and isolating all species <strong>of</strong><br />
fungi was developed by a group <strong>of</strong> ex-<br />
pert mycologists, and published. <strong>The</strong>se<br />
constitute a recommended strategy for<br />
sampling all species <strong>of</strong> fungi in a large,<br />
common species and how to make tests<br />
for vgetative compatibility groups and<br />
cross-fertility. More than half <strong>of</strong> the<br />
time will be spent in the laboratory,<br />
working with standard strains. Stu-<br />
dents may bring some <strong>of</strong> their own<br />
strains. Accommodations: Campus<br />
housing and all meals will be available<br />
for the week at $183.75. Hotel<br />
information can be obtained online<br />
(www.dce.ksu.edu) or by calling<br />
1.800.528.4748. Registration: To<br />
register, Phone 785.532.5569, FAX<br />
785.532.5637, or register online<br />
73<br />
terrestrial area that includes several distinct<br />
habitats. This work is essentially a<br />
how-to manual for those who need to isolate<br />
and study fungi from nature. With<br />
permission <strong>of</strong> the publisher, this book is<br />
now available on the Web at . In addition, when purchased<br />
through the MSA, a hard copy <strong>of</strong><br />
the book is available at a reduced rate<br />
along with other mycological books by<br />
this publisher.<br />
Rossman. . AY . Tulloss. . RE: . O'Dell.<br />
TE; Thorn, RG. 1998. Protocols for an<br />
All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory <strong>of</strong><br />
Fungi in a Costa Rican Conservation<br />
Area. Parkway Publishers, Boone, NC.<br />
195 pp.<br />
Fan; DF; Esteban, HB; Palm, ME.<br />
1996. Fungi on Rhododendron: A<br />
World Reference. Parkway Publishers,<br />
Boone, NC. 192 pp.<br />
Palm, ME; Chapela, IH (eds). 1997.<br />
Mycology in Sustainable Development:<br />
Expanding Concepts, Vanishing<br />
Borders. Parkway Publishers, Boone,<br />
$ NC. 305 pp.<br />
$15 for one book, $25 for two, $35<br />
<<br />
,: for all three including postage and<br />
"<br />
handling. Please send checks and<br />
addresses to Jeff Stone, MSA Treasurer,<br />
Dept. <strong>of</strong> Botany and Plant Pathology,<br />
Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR<br />
9733 1. VISA and Mastercard pay-<br />
ments can also be accepted by Jeff;<br />
include your account number and<br />
expiration date with your order.<br />
(www.dce.ksu.edu). Registration after<br />
May 12 is on a space-available basis<br />
only. Fees: <strong>The</strong> course registration fee<br />
<strong>of</strong> $600 includes all course materials,<br />
handouts, lab supplies, a Certificate <strong>of</strong><br />
Participation, and refreshment breaks<br />
each day. Additional Information: Call<br />
the Conference Registration Office at<br />
785.532.5569 or 800.432.8222 for<br />
registration information. For informa-<br />
tion about the course, contact John F<br />
Leslie at 785.532.1363 or<br />
(jfl@plantpath.ksu.edu).
MYCOLOGICAL NEWS ~ C Z U ~ &<br />
-<br />
Minnesota Mushroom Foray<br />
July 13-16,2000. <strong>The</strong> Minnesota<br />
<strong>Mycological</strong> <strong>Society</strong> will host a<br />
regional foray and workshop at St.<br />
John's University in Collegeville MN.<br />
This is a NAMA (North <strong>America</strong>n<br />
<strong>Mycological</strong> Association) -assisted<br />
event. St. John's is located approxi-<br />
mately 75 miles northwest <strong>of</strong> the<br />
MinneapolisISt. Paul International<br />
Airport. Dr Walt Sundberg <strong>of</strong> Southern<br />
Illinois University and Dr Tom Volk <strong>of</strong><br />
the University <strong>of</strong> Wisconsin-La Crosse<br />
will be foray mycologists. <strong>The</strong> foray<br />
will consist <strong>of</strong> collecting in the morn-<br />
ing, identification in the afternoon, and<br />
lectures in the evening. See (httDI/1<br />
www.wisc.edulbotanvlfungi/<br />
stiohns.htm1) for more information.<br />
Maine Basidiomycete Workshop<br />
Tom Volk will be teaching a three-<br />
day workshop on basidiomycete<br />
identification and ecology at the<br />
Humboldt Field Research Institute,<br />
Eagle Hill, Maine, from August 6-10,<br />
2000 (the weekend after the MSA<br />
meeting in Vermont). It's a beautiful<br />
location to learn more about identifying<br />
mushrooms, polypores, and other<br />
basidiomycetes. See (W<br />
maine.maine.edu/-eadhill/) for<br />
information on this and other Eagle Hill<br />
Workshops or see Tom Volk's webpage<br />
<strong>The</strong> 20th Annual Telluride Mushroom<br />
Conference will be held August 24-27,<br />
2000. <strong>The</strong> Colorado Conference is<br />
designed for those interested in<br />
mushroom identification (edible,<br />
poisonous, psychoactive) and cultiva-<br />
tion. Dr Alexander Shulgin (pharma-<br />
cologist, and author <strong>of</strong> Pihkal), who<br />
will discuss psychedelic mushrooms,<br />
and Bangkok's Satit Thaethatgoon,<br />
who will address Buddhism and the Art<br />
<strong>of</strong> Mushroom Cultivation, will serve as<br />
plenary speakers. <strong>The</strong>re will be courses<br />
on mushroom identification (by<br />
Audubon Field Guide to North Ameri-<br />
can Mushrooms author Gary Linc<strong>of</strong>f),<br />
cultivation (by Growing Gourmet and<br />
Medicinal Mushrooms author Paul<br />
Stamets), health (by Spontaneous<br />
Healing author Dr Andrew Weil), straw<br />
mushroom cultivation (by cultivation<br />
specialist John Corbin), Rocky Moun-<br />
tain mushrooms (by Colorado Myco-<br />
logical <strong>Society</strong> Past President Linnea<br />
Gillman), and poisonous mushrooms<br />
(by Mushroom Poisoning Co-editor Dr<br />
Emanuel Salzman). Telluride is an<br />
historic mining town on the western<br />
slope <strong>of</strong> the Rocky Mountain Continen-<br />
tal Divide. Daily forays will be led into<br />
the nearby forests, which generally<br />
produce a wide variety <strong>of</strong> wild mush-<br />
rooms (particularly edibles). Contact<br />
Fungophile via PO Box 480503,<br />
Denver, CO 80248-0503, Phone<br />
303.296.9359 FAX 303.297.1026, or<br />
Ernail (lodomvco@uswst.net).<br />
Michigan Mushroom Workshop<br />
<strong>The</strong> 2000 Workshop, Introduction to<br />
the Edible and Poisonous Mushrooms<br />
<strong>of</strong> Michigan, will be held at the<br />
Ford Forestry Center in L'Anse<br />
Michigan in the Upper Peninsula from<br />
September 8-10,2000. This workshop,<br />
scheduled during Michigan's peak fall<br />
mushroom-hunting season, will provide<br />
opportunities for lecture, laboratory,<br />
(htt~:ll~~~.~i~~.edu/botanv/fun~i/ and field experience in the recognition,<br />
volkmvco.htm1) for more information. collection, and identification and<br />
handling <strong>of</strong> some <strong>of</strong> Michigan's<br />
Telluride Mushroom Conference abundant edible and poisonous,<br />
mushrooms. <strong>The</strong> experience is planned<br />
to accommodate beginners and more<br />
advanced participants alike. Call the<br />
Ford Forestry Center at 906.524.6181<br />
or see Tom Volk's webpage (httD://<br />
www.wisc.edulbotan~/fungi/<br />
volkmvco.html) for more information.<br />
BMS Fungal Metabolite Symposium 2001<br />
Planning is underway for next year's<br />
international sympositum entitled<br />
"Fungal Metabolites: the Good, the<br />
74<br />
Bad and the Deadly," scheduled for<br />
April 22-27,2001, at the University <strong>of</strong><br />
Wales in Swansea (UK). This five-day<br />
International Symposium sponsored by<br />
the British <strong>Mycological</strong> <strong>Society</strong> will<br />
cover the whole range <strong>of</strong> activities <strong>of</strong><br />
bioactive fungal metabolites and will<br />
address the problems and opportunities<br />
associated with these compounds.<br />
Fungal metabolites have been used to<br />
develop several important medical and<br />
agrochemical agents, and continue to<br />
be investigated as a source <strong>of</strong> lead<br />
compounds in these industries. Strate-<br />
gies for the successful detection and<br />
exploitation <strong>of</strong> bioactive lead com-<br />
pounds will be examined. Some<br />
metabolites also have negative effects,<br />
particularly in relation to contamination<br />
<strong>of</strong> food raw materials. <strong>The</strong> ecology,<br />
production, and control <strong>of</strong> mycotoxins<br />
will also be addressed in this sympo-<br />
sium. <strong>The</strong> meeting will also assess<br />
whether or not metabolites produced by<br />
fungal biological control agents pose a<br />
risk to human and animal health, and<br />
will include a review <strong>of</strong> measures that<br />
detect andlor prevent toxic fungal<br />
metabolites entering the food chain.<br />
This timely conference will be <strong>of</strong><br />
considerable interest to scientists,<br />
representatives <strong>of</strong> industry and govern-<br />
ment health, and food and environmen-<br />
tal services. A network discussion<br />
workshop will provide an opportunity<br />
for participants to identify new partners<br />
for collaborative research to more fully<br />
exploit the potential <strong>of</strong> bioactive<br />
metabolites from fungi.<br />
Sessions include: "Overview; *Fungi<br />
as a source <strong>of</strong> novel bioactive com-<br />
pounds; Tools and methods to study<br />
fungal metabolites; Optimising the<br />
production <strong>of</strong> Bioactive Metabolites;<br />
Mycotoxins; Risk assessment for<br />
Fungal Biological Control Agents; and<br />
Network discussions. For further<br />
information please contact: Dr Tariq M<br />
Butt, School <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences,<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Wales Swansea, Single-<br />
ton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK.<br />
Phone +44.(0).1792.295.374, FAX<br />
+44.(0). 1792.295.447, Email<br />
(T.Butt@swansea.ac.uk )
THE MYCOLOGIST'S BOOKSHELF<br />
In this issue we review "Genera <strong>of</strong> Bionectriaceae, Hypocreaceae and Nectriaceae (Hypocreales, Ascomycetes)" by AY Rossman, GJ Samuels, CT Rogerson,<br />
and R Lowen, feature books receivedfrom February through April 2000, and list previously featured books received since November 1998. PLEASE send all<br />
requests to write reviews to the book review editor only (YZIOZ@TTACS.'ITU. EDU), and1 will accommodate your requests as best and as soon as possible.<br />
-John Zak, BOOK REVIEW EDITOR<br />
Genera <strong>of</strong> Bionectriaceae, Hypoereaceae and<br />
Nectriaceae (Hypocreales, Ascomycetes ) (Studies in Mycol-<br />
ogy 42). 1999. AY Rossman, GJ Samuels, CT Rogerson, and<br />
R Lowen. Centraalbureau voor Schirnmelcultures, Badelft,<br />
<strong>The</strong> Netherlands, 248 p. Price: Hfl.95.<br />
This book represents a modem reassessment <strong>of</strong> the genera<br />
<strong>of</strong> Hypocreales based on examination <strong>of</strong> many specimens,<br />
including types for most genera, and cultures using standard-<br />
ized procedures. It replaces CT Rogerson's fine treatment<br />
published nearly 30 years ago. After appropriate introductory<br />
material, three <strong>of</strong> the five recognized families-<br />
Bionectriaceae, Hypocreaceae, and Nectriaceae-are<br />
considered in detail; the Clavicipitaceae and Niessliaceae are<br />
largely omitted from the treatment. <strong>The</strong> treated families<br />
include 56 genera. Although the families are keyed out using<br />
morphological criteria, they largely correspond to three<br />
major phylogenetic clades published earlier by Rehner and<br />
Samuels. Keys are presented to the genera <strong>of</strong> each family. In<br />
some cases, keys are presented to species. For example,<br />
Nectria has been reduced to 27 species (at least 800 Nectria<br />
names are extant) and a key, as well as descriptions andfor<br />
notes on the species, is given. Likewise, the large genus<br />
Cosmospora, which contains inhabitants <strong>of</strong> xylariaceous<br />
stromata formerly placed in Nectria and many others, is<br />
REVIEW<br />
treated in detail. On the other hand, the species <strong>of</strong> neither<br />
Hypocrea nor Hypomyces are treated, but references are<br />
given to pertinent literature. Abundant photomicrographs and<br />
drawings are included to represent and clarify various<br />
morphological features. Two full-color plates illustrate some<br />
<strong>of</strong> the diversity <strong>of</strong> these beautiful fungi. A highly useful<br />
treatment <strong>of</strong> excluded genera is given, including, in many<br />
cases, descriptions and indications <strong>of</strong> taxonomic placement.<br />
<strong>The</strong> book is attractively done in the blue-orange-white style<br />
<strong>of</strong> modem "Studies in Mycology." <strong>The</strong> paper is high-gloss,<br />
quality stock. <strong>The</strong> text seems essentially error free. This book<br />
is a tribute to the authors, all leaders in biological and<br />
systematic investigations <strong>of</strong> hypocreaceous fungi. Its high<br />
quality is likewise owing to the editorial expertise <strong>of</strong> Walter<br />
Garns and to the printer.<br />
Every mycologist dealing with pyrenomycetes or teaching<br />
advanced students should have easy access to this book.<br />
Because many <strong>of</strong> the fungi included are plant pathogens-<br />
<strong>of</strong>ten encountered in their anamorphic states-this book will<br />
prove useful to most plant pathologists, and will be indis-<br />
pensable to many.<br />
BOOKS AND PUBLICATIONS RECEIVED FEBRUARY THROUGH APRIL 2000<br />
Armillaria Root Rot: Biology and<br />
Control <strong>of</strong> Honey Fungus. 2000. RT<br />
Fox (ed). Intercept Limited, PO Box<br />
716, Andover Hants, SPlO IYG, UK,<br />
intercept@andover.co.uk, or Lavoisier<br />
Publishing Inc., c/o Springer Verlag<br />
Customer Service, PO Box 2485,<br />
Secaucus, NJ 07096, orders@sprin~er-<br />
nv.com, 240 p. Price: 47.50GBP and<br />
$88US. Book requested from the<br />
publisher.<br />
Gasteromycetes, I. Lycoperdales,<br />
Nidulariales, Phallales,<br />
Sclerodermatales, lhlostomatales.<br />
1998. F D Calonge. Vol 3 Flora<br />
Mycologica Iberica, J Cramer. Distributor:<br />
E. SchweizertbartWsche<br />
Verlagsbuchhandlung (Nagele u.<br />
Obermiller), Johannesstr.3A, D-70176,<br />
Stuttgart, Germany, or Balogh Scientific<br />
Books, 191 1 North Duncan Road,<br />
Champaign, IL 61821.272 p. Price:<br />
140DM. Book requested from publisher.<br />
Laboulbeniales, I. Laboulbenia.<br />
1998. S Santamaria. Vol. 4. Flora<br />
Mycologica Iberica, J Crarner. Distributor:<br />
E. Schweizertbart"sche<br />
Verlagsbuchhandlung (Nagele u.<br />
Obermiller), Johannesstr.3A, D-70176,<br />
Stuttgart, German or Balogh Scien-<br />
7?<br />
-Jack D Rogers<br />
Department <strong>of</strong> Plant Pathology<br />
Washington State University<br />
Pullman, WA 99164-6430<br />
<br />
tific Books, 191 1 North Duncan Road,<br />
Champaign, IL 61821. 187p. Price:<br />
120DM. Book requested from publisher.<br />
Microbial Endophytes. 2000. CW<br />
Bacon and JF White, Jr (eds). Marcel<br />
Dekker, Inc, New York. 487 p. Review<br />
needed.<br />
Myxomycetes: A Handbook <strong>of</strong><br />
Slime Molds, paperback edition, 2000.<br />
SS Stephenson and H Stempen. Timber<br />
Press, Inc, 133 SW Second Avenue,<br />
Suite 450, Portland OR 97204,<br />
mail@ timberpress.com, 183 p. Price:<br />
$19.95. Review needed.
THE MYCOLOGISTS BOOKSHELF ~01~:1utii?d<br />
Forest Mushrooms <strong>of</strong> China (Chinese<br />
edition with Latin names). 1997. LP Shao<br />
and CT Xiang (eds). 652 p. Price: $127US<br />
(surface), $145US (airmail). Mail order to:<br />
PREVIOUSLY LISTED BOOKS FROM NOVEMBER 1999<br />
A Monograph <strong>of</strong> the Genus Pezicula .<br />
Huayu Center for Environmental Informa- Se~toria on Cereals: A Study <strong>of</strong><br />
and its Anamorphs. 1999. GJ Verkley. tion Services, PO Box 4088, Beijing Pathosystems. 1999. JA Lucus, P Bowyer<br />
(Studies in Mycology 44.) Centraalbureau 100001, P.R. China. Fax order: +86-10- and MH Anderson (eds). CAB1 Publishing,<br />
voor Schimmelcultures, BaamlDelft, <strong>The</strong> 68575909; Email order: Please send order 10 E 40th St, Suite 3203, New York, NY,<br />
Netherlands. 180 p. Price: Hfl.85. Review to the following two addresses, respec- 353 p. cabi-noa@cabi.org. Price: $100US.<br />
needed. tively: hceis@~ublic3.bta.net.cn or Review needed.<br />
Colored Illustrations <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Ganodermataceae and Other Fungi.<br />
1997. W Xingliang and Z Mu (eds). 350 p.<br />
Price: $67US (surface). Mail order to:<br />
Huayu Center for Environmental Information<br />
Services, PO Box 4088, Beijing<br />
100001, P.R. China. Fax order: +86-10-<br />
68575909; Email order: Please send order<br />
to the following two addresses, respectively:<br />
hceis@public3.bta.net.cn or<br />
hceis@mx.cei.~ov.cn. Payment: check,<br />
bank transfer or international money order<br />
on receipt <strong>of</strong> book Book requested from<br />
publisher.<br />
hceis@mx.cei.~ov.cn. Payment: check,<br />
bank transfer or international money order<br />
on receipt <strong>of</strong> book Book requested from<br />
publisher.<br />
From Ethnomycology to Fungal<br />
Biotechnology: Exploiting Fungi from<br />
Natural Resources for Novel Products.<br />
1999. J Singh and KR Aneja (eds). Kluwer<br />
AcademicPlenum Publishers, 233 Spring<br />
Street, New York NY. 292 p. Review<br />
needed.<br />
Genera <strong>of</strong> Bionnectriaceae,<br />
Hypocreaceae and Nectriaceae<br />
(Hypocreales, Ascomycetes) (Studies in<br />
OF RELATED INTEREST ...<br />
China Biodiversity: A Country Study,<br />
English Edition, 1998. Organized by State<br />
Environmental Protection Administration,<br />
476 p. Price: $78US (surface), $93US<br />
(airmail). Mail order to: Huayu Center for<br />
Environmental Information Services, PO<br />
Box 4088, Beijing 100001, P.R. China. Fax<br />
order: +86-10-68575909 Email order:<br />
Please send order to the following two<br />
addresses, respectively:<br />
hceis@public3.bta.net.cn or<br />
hceis@mx.cei.gov.cn. Payment: check,<br />
~olo'red Illustrations <strong>of</strong> Macr<strong>of</strong>ungi Mycology No 42). 1999. AY Rossman, GJ bank transfer or international money order<br />
(Mushrooms) <strong>of</strong> China. (Chinese edition Samuels, CT Rogerson, R Lowen.<br />
on receipt <strong>of</strong> book Book requested from<br />
with Latin names) 1998. H Nian Lai (ed). Centraalbureau voor Schirnmelcultures, publisher.<br />
336 p. Price: $1 IOUS (surface), $130US<br />
(airmail). Mail order to: Huayu Center for<br />
Environmental Information Services, PO<br />
Box 4088, Beijing 100001, P.R. China. Fax<br />
order: +86- 10-68575909; Email order:<br />
Please send order to the following two<br />
addresses, respectively:<br />
hceis@~ublic3.bta.net.cn or<br />
hceis@mx.cei.gov.cn. Payment: check,<br />
bank transfer or international money order<br />
on receipt <strong>of</strong> book Book requested from<br />
publisher.<br />
BaamiDelft, <strong>The</strong> Netherlands. 248 p. Price:<br />
Hfl.95. Review in this issue.<br />
Icones <strong>of</strong> Medicinal Fungi From China.<br />
1987, English Edition, Y. Jianzhe (ed), 61 1<br />
p. Price: $122US (surface) $148US<br />
(airmail). Mail order to: Huayu Center for<br />
Environmental Information Services, PO<br />
Box 4088, Beijing 100001, P.R. China. Fax<br />
order: +86-10-68575909; Email order:<br />
Please send order to the following two<br />
addresses, respectively:<br />
hceis@public3.bta.net.cn or<br />
China's National Report on Implementation<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Convention on Biological<br />
Diversity, English Edition. 1998. Published<br />
by the National Environmental Protection<br />
Agency <strong>of</strong> China 140 p. Price: $39US<br />
(surface), $45US (airmail). Order to: Huayu<br />
Center for Environmental Information<br />
Services, PO Box 4088, Beijing 100001,<br />
P.R. China. Fax Order: +86-10-68575909;<br />
Email order: Please send order to the<br />
following two addresses, respectively:<br />
hceis@public3.bta.net.cn or<br />
Current Advances in Mycorrhizae hceis@mx.cei.gov.cn. Payment: check, hceis@mx.cei.pov.cn. Payment: check,<br />
Research. 2000. GK Podilla and DD bank transfer or international money order bank transfer or international money on<br />
Douds, Jr (eds). APS Press, 3340 Pilot on receipt <strong>of</strong> book Book requested from receipt <strong>of</strong> book Book requested from<br />
Knob Road, St. Paul, MN 55121,214 p. publisher.<br />
publisher.<br />
Price: $38, a~s@sisoc.org. Book requested<br />
from publisher.<br />
Microbes and Man, 41h Edition. 2000. J<br />
Postgate, Cambridge University Press, <strong>The</strong><br />
Edinburgh Building, Cambridge CB2 2RU,<br />
UK. 373 p. Price: $19.95US.<br />
Molecular Fungal Biology. 1999. RP<br />
Oliver and M Schweizer (eds). Cambridge<br />
University Press, <strong>The</strong> Edinburgh Building,<br />
Cambridge CB2 2RU, UK. 377 p. Review<br />
needed.
Positions Available<br />
Environmental Microbiology<br />
Laboratory, Inc., has another opening<br />
for a full-time MycologistIAnalyst in<br />
their laboratory located in the San<br />
Francisco, CA, area. Environmental<br />
Microbiology Laboratory is a rapidly<br />
growing company that provides<br />
competitive wages, rewards employees<br />
with merit and pr<strong>of</strong>it-sharing bonuses,<br />
has a 401k plan, provides health<br />
benfits, has generous holidaylsickl<br />
vacation time, and is close to public<br />
transportation. It is a recognized leader<br />
in bioaerosol and microbial analysis<br />
and specializes in the analysis <strong>of</strong><br />
surface and air samples for fungi. For<br />
more information about the company,<br />
see http:l/www.emlab.com. <strong>The</strong><br />
primary responsibility <strong>of</strong> the position<br />
will be to analyze air, surface, tape, and<br />
bulk samples by microscopy for fungi,<br />
and, in some cases, bacteria. Air sample<br />
analysis includes analysis <strong>of</strong> both<br />
culturable (Andersen) and nonculturable<br />
samples (spore traps such as<br />
Burkard, Allergenco, and Zefon Air-O-<br />
Cell). Ongoing training and education<br />
will be part <strong>of</strong> the position. Good bright<br />
field microscopy skills, good communication,<br />
the ability to work well with a<br />
team, strong organizational skills, and<br />
attention to details are important. A MS<br />
in Microbiology is preferred and<br />
experience recognizing environmental<br />
micr<strong>of</strong>ungi is very desirable. Please<br />
send your resume and the names <strong>of</strong><br />
three references to Dave Gallup,<br />
Environmental Microbiology Laboratory,<br />
Inc, 1800 Sullivan Ave, Suite 209,<br />
Daly City, CA 94015. Phone<br />
650.991.3436 FAX 650.991.2243 Email<br />
(d~allup@emlab.com). Applications<br />
will be considered until the position is<br />
filled.<br />
<strong>Mycological</strong> Goods and Services<br />
Mold Testing and Identification<br />
Services. Identification and contamina-<br />
tion control for Indoor Air Quality<br />
MYCOLOGICAL CLASSIFIEDS<br />
Rea d the <strong>Mycological</strong> Classifieds for announcements <strong>of</strong> co urses, employment opportunities, positions wanted,<br />
and mycological goods and services <strong>of</strong>fered or needed.<br />
including Home and Building Mold<br />
Test Kits, Food Technology, Spawn<br />
Technology, Plant Diseases. ASTM &<br />
Mil-Spec testing for Aerospace,<br />
Controlled Environments and Environmental<br />
Engineering. 10% discount for<br />
Regular and Sustaining MSA members.<br />
Abbey Lane Laboratory, PO Box 1665,<br />
Philomath, OR 97370 USA<br />
541.929.5984 (microbe@pioneer.net)<br />
(www.vioneer.net/-microbe/<br />
abbevlab.html2. [Steven Carpenter]<br />
Slime Molds I, 11,111. <strong>The</strong>se three<br />
historic films have been collected on<br />
one video, running about 65 minutes.<br />
<strong>The</strong> color films were prepared by<br />
James Koevenig in 1961 at the University<br />
<strong>of</strong> Iowa under the direction <strong>of</strong> CJ<br />
Alexopoulos, GW Martin and RT<br />
Porter. <strong>The</strong> video features live-action<br />
and time-lapse photography, photomicrography,<br />
and animation, and teaches<br />
about the fascinating world <strong>of</strong> the<br />
myxomycetes. Tapes will be prepared<br />
as individual orders are received, so<br />
allow extra time. Cost per tape is<br />
$29.95 plus $5 shipping & handling ($7<br />
overseas). Send check or money order<br />
- payable to NAMA [North <strong>America</strong>n<br />
<strong>Mycological</strong> Association] - to Dean<br />
Abel, Biological Sciences 138 BB,<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Iowa, Iowa City IA<br />
52242. Note: <strong>The</strong> regular tape is in<br />
NTSC format for North <strong>America</strong>, but is<br />
available in SECAM (France and<br />
others) or PAL (Spain, Germany and<br />
others) by special order. Specify the<br />
required format and send $46.95<br />
(shipping included) to Dean Abel at the<br />
above address.<br />
Publications Available<br />
Mycologue Publications, 8727<br />
Lochside Drive, Sidney, BC V8L 1M8,<br />
Canada, proudly announces version<br />
1.07 <strong>of</strong> its CD-ROM version <strong>of</strong> the<br />
widely used textbook, <strong>The</strong> Fifh<br />
Kingdom. This unique CD-ROM, the<br />
only one to cover all aspects <strong>of</strong><br />
mycology, is especially suitable for<br />
teaching, since it contains the full,<br />
updated text <strong>of</strong> the book (24 chapters),<br />
plus well over 1,000 colour illustrations,<br />
instructional animations, and<br />
video segments, covering every aspect<br />
<strong>of</strong> mycology, from detailed treatments<br />
<strong>of</strong> the systematics <strong>of</strong> all major groups<br />
through dispersal, physiology, genetics,<br />
ecology, plant pathology, fungicides,<br />
biocontrol, fungi as predators, fungi as<br />
mutualistic symbionts with animals and<br />
plants, fungi as food and in food<br />
processing, fungi in food spoilage and<br />
contamination with toxins, poisonous<br />
and hallucinogenic mushrooms,<br />
medical mycology and exploitation <strong>of</strong><br />
fungi. <strong>The</strong>re is extensive crossindexing<br />
among chapters and glossary.<br />
Hotlinks connect the table <strong>of</strong> contents<br />
with chapters, and chapter headings<br />
with sections, as well as unfamiliar<br />
terms with the glossary. As a bonus, the<br />
CD-ROM contains a free version <strong>of</strong><br />
Matchmaker, a visual basic mushroom<br />
database and synoptic identification<br />
key with almost 2,000 descriptions and<br />
1700 illustrations <strong>of</strong> macroscopic fungi.<br />
For more information visit the<br />
Mycologue web site at<br />
www.~acificcoast.net/-mvcolog.<br />
Marine Mycology - A Practical<br />
Approach, edited by Kevin Hyde &<br />
Stephen Pointing <strong>of</strong> <strong>The</strong> University <strong>of</strong><br />
Hong Kong, has recently been published.<br />
More information (including<br />
online order capabilities) is available at<br />
(http:llwww.hku.hk.lecology/mvcologylbooksale).<br />
Fungi Wanted<br />
Carley Davidson, a graduate student<br />
at the University <strong>of</strong> Delaware, is in<br />
need <strong>of</strong> isolates <strong>of</strong> Phytophthora<br />
phaseoli, as part <strong>of</strong> her masters<br />
research project on race characteriza-<br />
tion <strong>of</strong> P phaseoli. If anyone has<br />
cultures they are willing to donate,<br />
please contact Carley at the University<br />
<strong>of</strong> Delaware, Department <strong>of</strong> Plant and<br />
Soil Sciences, 147 Townsend Hall,<br />
Newark DE 19717-1303 USA, Phone<br />
302.831.2548 Email<br />
(carlevd@udel.
MYCOLOGY ONLINE<br />
To help make lengthy electronic addresses more easily remembered, we use the term "suffix"<br />
to refer to anything following the final "slash" [ /] <strong>of</strong> the website listed in the title.<br />
higher systems. <strong>The</strong> database can be downloaded from the<br />
CORTBASE<br />
above URL managed by Henrik Nilsson & Nils Hallenberg,<br />
http://www.sssbot.gu.sddatabasdcortbase/co~base.html<br />
Botanical Institute, University <strong>of</strong> Goteborg<br />
CORTBASE -A nomenclatural database <strong>of</strong> corticioid fungi<br />
(Hymenomycetes) by Erast Parmasto (Institute <strong>of</strong> Zoology &<br />
Botany, 181 Riia St., EE 2400 Tartu, Estonia)<br />
A nomenclatural database <strong>of</strong> corticioid fungi, built up by<br />
Parmasto, has now been released in an updated version, 1.3.<br />
<strong>The</strong> database covers species in Corticiaceae s.1. and related<br />
hymenomycetes and their basionyms, synonyms, taxonomi-<br />
cally correct names, data on usage, and evaluation <strong>of</strong><br />
nomenclatural status have been compiled. <strong>The</strong> data retrieval<br />
program enables data to be viewed on screen, written to a<br />
text file or from a printer; it is available as freeware. <strong>The</strong><br />
present version comprises 7875 names that were published<br />
before December 1999.<br />
To make the database usable for taxonomists, a data<br />
retrieval (searching) program was written in Clipper lan-<br />
guage that makes the database autonomous, and no other<br />
program is needed for its use. Together with the index files it<br />
is about 7 MB, but less than 1 MB when compressed. It may<br />
be used on any IBM PC-compatible (DOS) personal com-<br />
puter that has 512 KB or more <strong>of</strong> free RAM and DOS 3.3 or<br />
MYCOLOGISTS ONLINE<br />
http://web.savba.sk/botu/myco/<br />
Mycologists Online, the worldwide directory <strong>of</strong> mycolo-<br />
gists, lichenologists, editors <strong>of</strong> mycological journals,<br />
herbarialcollections, and societies has finally found its<br />
permanent home at the above address. All new entries and/or<br />
updates should be sent to Pave1 Lizon (botupali@savba.sk)<br />
or Erast Parmasto (e.parmasto@zbi.ee).<br />
TROPICAL FUNGI (PHALLALESIBIODNERSITY)<br />
http://www.uv.mxlinstitutos/forest/hongos/<br />
Armando Lopez Ramirez, in collaboration with his<br />
colleague Pr<strong>of</strong>essor M-C Juventino Barcia Alvarado at the<br />
Institute <strong>of</strong> Forest Genetics at the University <strong>of</strong> Veracruz<br />
(Xalapa, MX) devotes his web page to phallales, fungal<br />
biodiversity, and oyster mushroom cultivation. Text is in<br />
Spanish.<br />
MYCOLOGY ON-LINE DIRECTORY<br />
- - - - - - - - - - - - - -<br />
Below is an alphabetical list <strong>of</strong> websites featured in Inoculum during the part twelve months. Those wishing to add sites to this directory or to edit addresses<br />
should Email lorelei@teleoort.com. Unless <strong>of</strong>henvise notified, listings will be automatically deleted afrer one yeaK<br />
* = New or Updated info (most recent Inoculum Volume-Number citation)<br />
*CORTBASE (5 1-3)<br />
http://www.sysbot.gu.se/database/<br />
cortbase/cortbase.html<br />
DISCOVER LIFE IN AMERICA (SMOKIES ATBI)<br />
(50-4)<br />
http://www.discoverlife.org<br />
ERIE (50-5)<br />
http://www.cnie.org<br />
EXSICCATI AT THE NYBG (50-6)<br />
http://www.nybg.org/bsci/hco~fung/<br />
exsiccati.htm1<br />
FARLOW AT HARVARD (50-4)<br />
http://www.herbaria.harvard.edu/<br />
FUNGI OF THE LINDSAY-PARSONS<br />
PRESERVE (50-6)<br />
http://ccfb.cornell.edu<br />
(FULLY) ILLUSTRATED FIFTH KINGDOM (50-4)<br />
http://www.pacificcoast.net/<br />
-mycolog/<br />
ICOM3 (5 1-2)<br />
http://www.waite.adelaide.edu.au/<br />
Soil-Waterl3icom.html<br />
IMC7 (50-3)<br />
http:/llsb380.plbio.lsu.edu/ima/<br />
index.htm<br />
INOCULUM (5 1-2)<br />
http://www.erin.utoronto.ca/-w3msal<br />
inoc2-00.htm<br />
M~CHIGAN FUNGUS COLLECTIONS (5 1-2)<br />
http://www.herb.lsa.umich.edu/<br />
index.htm<br />
MYCOINFO, "THE WORLD'S FIRST MYCOLOGICAL<br />
E-JOURNAL" (5 1- 1)<br />
BIODIVERSITY<br />
http://www.mycoinfo.com/<br />
*MYCOLOGISTS ONLINE (5 1-3)<br />
http://web.savba.sk/botu/myco/<br />
*MYCOLOGUE PUBLICATIONS (5 1-3)<br />
www.pacificcoast.net/-mycolog<br />
GENEALOGY OF NORTH AMERICAN MYCOLO- NAMA POISON CASE REGISTRY (50-4)<br />
GISTS (51-1)<br />
http://www.sph.umich.edu/-kwceel<br />
http:/Asb380.plbio.lsu.edu/<br />
mpcr<br />
Genealogy1
NOMENCLATURE: IAPT C O ~ E<br />
http://www.cbs.knaw.nl<br />
NOMENCLATURE IN THE 2 1 ~ ~<br />
FOR FUNGI<br />
CENTURY (50-4)<br />
http://www.inform.umd.edu/PBIO/<br />
nomcl/indx.html<br />
NYBG FUNGUS HERBARIUM (5 1-2)<br />
http://www.nybg.org/bsci/herb/<br />
newfungusherb.htm1<br />
PLEUROTUS INTERSTERILITY GROUPS (50-4)<br />
http://fp.bio.utk.edu/mycology<br />
CALENDAR OF EVENTS<br />
MYCOLOGY ON-LINE c~n~luded<br />
RIAM - REVISTA IBEROAMERICANA DE<br />
MICOLOGIA (SUBSCRIPTION) (51-2)<br />
http://www.reviberoammicol.corn/<br />
pdflcurrent-subscribers_only.asp<br />
*TROPICAL FUNGI (F'HALLALES/BIODTVERSITY -<br />
IN SPANISH) (5 1-3)<br />
http://www.uv.mx/institutos/forest/<br />
hongosl<br />
US NATIONAL FUNGUS COLLECTIONS (50-3)<br />
http://nt.ars-grin.gov<br />
UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE MYCOLOGY GROUP<br />
(50-4)<br />
http://fp.bio.utk.edu/mycology/<br />
UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA MICROFUNGUS<br />
COLLECTION AND HERBARIUM (50-6)<br />
http://www.devonian.ualberta.cal<br />
uamhl<br />
WEB MSA (5 1-2)<br />
http://www.erin.utoronto.cal-w3msal<br />
Event dates and riescri/~tiotis precede event locations (ilalic boldface), contacts (plain font), and Email/MJebsites (bold face, no brackets).<br />
Those wishing to list upcoming tnycological courses, workshops, conventions, symposia, and forays in the Calendar should submit material formatted as<br />
shown below and include complete postaMelectronic addresses.<br />
2000 (May 15-19). 15th International 2000 (July 9- 14) Asian <strong>Mycological</strong> 2000 (August 2-4). 1st Latin <strong>America</strong>n<br />
Congress <strong>of</strong> the ISMS (International Congress, University <strong>of</strong> Hong Kong. Symposium <strong>of</strong> Edible Mushroom<br />
<strong>Society</strong> <strong>of</strong> Mushroom Science). Hong Kong, CHINA Cultivation [Stage 21 .<br />
Maastricht, THE NETHERLANDS Dr Kevin D Hyde DETAILS Inoculum 51(2).<br />
http://www.cnc.nUisms kdhyde@hkucc.hku.hk Rosario, ARGENTINA<br />
http://www.hku.hWecology/mycology/ Dr Gerardo Mata<br />
whzz-new/090198.html mata@ecologia.edu.mx<br />
2000 (May 19). LA Public Health Lab:<br />
"Nipping yeast diseases in the bud:<br />
identification, susceptibility testing and<br />
relevant case studies."<br />
DETAILS Inoculum 5 l(2).<br />
Los Angeles, CALIFORNIA<br />
National Laboratory Training Network<br />
p<strong>of</strong>fice@nltn.org<br />
www.phppo.cdc.gov/dls/nltn/default.asp<br />
2000 (June 8-1 1). NAMA 2000. North<br />
<strong>America</strong>n <strong>Mycological</strong> Association<br />
Annual Foray. Drs William Cibula &<br />
Clark Ovrebo, Guest Mycologists.<br />
Beaumont, TEXAS<br />
http://www.namyco.org<br />
2000 (June 1 1 - 16). Fusariurn Laboratory<br />
Workshop. Drs Walter Marasas & Lester<br />
Burgess, instructors.<br />
DETAILS Inoculum 5 l(3).<br />
Manhattan, KANSAS<br />
Kansas State University Division <strong>of</strong><br />
Continuing Education<br />
131 College Court Bldg Manhattan, KS<br />
66506<br />
785.532.5569 FAX 785.532.5637<br />
www.dce.ksu.edu<br />
2000 (July 10-22). Highlands Biological<br />
Station Workshop: Fleshy Fungi <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Highlands Plateau.<br />
DETAILS Inoculum 5 l(2).<br />
Highlands, NORTH CAROLINA<br />
Dr Andrew S Methven, 217.581.6241<br />
cfasm@eiu.edu<br />
2000 (July 13-16). Minnesota <strong>Mycological</strong><br />
<strong>Society</strong> regional foray. Drs Walt Sundberg<br />
(SIU) & Tom Volk (UW-LC) guest<br />
mycologists.<br />
Collegeville, MINNESOTA<br />
St. John's University<br />
http://www.wisc.eduJbotany/fungi/<br />
stjohns.html<br />
2000 (July 29-August 3). Annual Meeting<br />
<strong>of</strong> the <strong>Mycological</strong> <strong>Society</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>America</strong>.<br />
DETAILS Inoculum 5 l(1).<br />
Burlington, Vermont USA<br />
Dr Faye Mumn<br />
fmurrin@morgan.ucs.mun.ca<br />
http://www.erin.utoronto.cal-w3msaI<br />
2000 (August 6-10). Basidiomycete<br />
Identification and Ecology Workshop, Dr<br />
Tom Volk, instructor.<br />
DETAILS Inoculum 5 l(3).<br />
Eagle HiU, MAINE<br />
Humboldt Field Research Institute<br />
http://maine.maine.edu/-eaglhilV)<br />
http:llwww.wisc.eduJbotany/fungi/<br />
2000 (August 6-1 1). Leelanu Center for<br />
Education Workshop: Mushrooms <strong>of</strong><br />
the Sleeping Bear Dunes.<br />
DETAILS Inoculum 5 l(2).<br />
Glen Arbor, MICHIGAN<br />
Dr Andrew S Methven 217.581.6241<br />
cfasm@eiu.edu<br />
2000 (August 13-19). <strong>The</strong> 7th Interna-<br />
tional Symposium on the Microbiology<br />
<strong>of</strong> the Aerial Plant Surfaces.<br />
DETAILS Inoculum 50(5).<br />
Berkeley, CALIFORNIA<br />
Dr Steven Lindow<br />
Dept Plant/Microbio, 11 1 Koshland Hall<br />
Berkeley CA USA 94720-3 102<br />
icelab@socrates.berkeley.edu<br />
510.642.4174 FAX 510.642.4995<br />
http://nature.berkeley.edulP2OOO
CALENDAR OF EVENTS concluded<br />
2000 (August 13- 19). 3rd International<br />
Congress on Symbiosis (TICS).<br />
DETAILS Inoculum 50(3):23.<br />
Marburg, GERMANY<br />
Pr<strong>of</strong> Dr Hans Christian Weber<br />
weberh@mailer.uni-marburg.de<br />
http://staff-www.uni.marburg.de/<br />
-b-morpho/symbio.html<br />
2000 (August 17-20). 3rd International<br />
Symposium on Rhizoctonia. (ISR2000)<br />
DETAILS Inoculum 50(6).<br />
Taichung, TAIWAN<br />
National Chung Hsing University<br />
250 Kuokuang Road, Taichung 402 Taiwan<br />
isr2000 @dragon.nchu.edu.tw/-isr20001<br />
886.4.2840370 FAX 886.4.2860 164<br />
http://www.nchu.edu.tw/-isr2000<br />
2000 (October 2-4). VII National Myco-<br />
logical Congress.<br />
First announcement.<br />
Queritaro, MEXICO<br />
Centro Universitario de la UAQ, Cerro de<br />
las Campanas.<br />
Felipe San Martin, President<br />
Sociedad Mexicana de Micologia A.C.<br />
biota@correo.tamnet.com.mx<br />
M en C Carlos Isaac Silva Barr6n<br />
Presidente del Comitk Local<br />
(01-42) 15-47-77; 15-53-93 x 66-67<br />
isaac @sunserver.uaq.mx<br />
2001 (April 22-27). BMS International<br />
Symposium "Fungal Metabolites: the<br />
Good, the Bad and the Deadly."<br />
DETAKS Inoculum 5 l(3) [this issue].<br />
Swansea, WALES<br />
2001 (July 7-12). 8th International<br />
Marine & Freshwater Mycology<br />
Symposium.<br />
First announcement.<br />
Hurghada, EGYPT<br />
Youssuf Gherbawy, University <strong>of</strong> Agricul-<br />
tural Sciences<br />
Institute <strong>of</strong> Applied Microbiology<br />
Muthgasse 18hause B<br />
A- 1 190 Vienna, Austria<br />
yhassan@mailcity.com<br />
2001 (July 8-13). 3rd International<br />
Congress on Mycorrhizae (ICOM 3).<br />
Adelaide, AUSTRALIA<br />
Pr<strong>of</strong>. Sally Smith, Dept. Soil & Water<br />
Waite Campus, <strong>The</strong> University <strong>of</strong><br />
Adelaide<br />
PMB 1, Glen Osmond, South Australia<br />
Dr Tariq M Butt, 5064.<br />
2000 (August 24-27). 20ah Annual Telluride School <strong>of</strong> Biological Sciences, University +61.(08).8303.7351 FAX<br />
Mushroom Conference. <strong>of</strong> Wales Swansea, +61.(08).8383.6511<br />
DETAILS Inoculum 5 l(3). Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK. sally.smith@adelaide.edu.au<br />
Telluride, COLORADO +44.0.1792.295374 FAX http://www.waite.adelaide.edu.an/<br />
Fungophile PO Box 480503 +44.0.1792.295447 Soil-Science/3icom,html<br />
Denver, CO USA 80248-0503 T.Butt @swansea.ac.uk<br />
303.296.9359<br />
2000 (September 8-10). Introduction to the<br />
Edible & Poisonous Mushrooms <strong>of</strong><br />
Michigan,<br />
DETAILS Inoculum 5 l(3).<br />
L'Anse, MICHIGAN<br />
Ford Forestry Center 906.524.6 18 1<br />
http://www.wisc.edu/botany/fungil<br />
volkmyco.html<br />
Fmm Knidtka-Raskmsko / "Lirrle Coloring Book "1<br />
0 TOO Usdorel'.~rvo<br />
(corrrresy <strong>of</strong> Karen Nakasone)<br />
2002 (August). International <strong>Mycological</strong><br />
Congress (IMC 7).<br />
Oslo, NOR WAY<br />
Leif Ryvarden, Botany Dept<br />
Biological Institute, Box 1045<br />
Blindern, N-0316 Norway<br />
leif.ryvarden @ bio.uio.no<br />
47.22854623 FAX 47.228567 17<br />
http://www.uio.no/conferences/imc7/
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OF THE MYCOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA<br />
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Lane Science Equipment Co<br />
225 West 34th Street, Suite 1412<br />
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Complete line <strong>of</strong> mushroom storage<br />
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Attn: Dr MM Dreyfuss<br />
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CH-4002 Basel Switzerland<br />
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Fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals by<br />
means <strong>of</strong> microorganisms<br />
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Attn: T Ellor<br />
10 1 1 Kaolin Rd<br />
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Attn: Dr JA Beny<br />
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World leader in genetic research for<br />
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Rohm and Haas Co<br />
Attn: Dr W Wilson, Research Labs<br />
727 Nomstown Road<br />
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Specialty monomers, industrial biocides,<br />
and agricultural chemicals<br />
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Attn: A Moran<br />
K-15-4-4920 2015 Galloping Hill Road<br />
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ment.<br />
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Attn: Dr RW Kenigan, Director<br />
Research Dept Library<br />
West Hills Industrial Park<br />
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Specialists in large-scale production <strong>of</strong><br />
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Triarch Incorporated<br />
Attn: PL Conant, President<br />
PO Box 98 Ripon WI 54971<br />
Quality prepared microscope slides,<br />
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Unicorn Imp & Mfg Corp<br />
Attn: L Hsu www.unicornbags.com<br />
PO Box 272,113 Hwy 24<br />
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Producers <strong>of</strong> autoclavable/micro-vented<br />
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Uniroyal Chemical Company, Inc.<br />
Attn: Dr AR Bell<br />
Crop Protection R & D<br />
70 Amity Road Bethany CT 06525<br />
Producers <strong>of</strong> crop protection/production<br />
chemicals, fungicides, insecticides, miticides,<br />
herbicides, plant growth regulants, and foliar<br />
nutrients<br />
Warner-Lambert Company<br />
Attn: RM Cresswell, Chairman<br />
Pharmaceutical Research Division<br />
2800 Plymouth Road<br />
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You are encouraged to inform the Sustaining Mcmbcrship Committee <strong>of</strong> firms or foundations that might be approached about Sustaining<br />
~embershi~ in the MSA. sustaining members have all the rights and privileges <strong>of</strong> individual members in the MSA<br />
and are listed as Sustaining Members in all issues <strong>of</strong> Mycologia and Inoculum.
inoculum<br />
<strong>The</strong> Newsletter<br />
<strong>of</strong> the<br />
<strong>Mycological</strong><br />
<strong>Society</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>America</strong><br />
Supplement to Mycologia<br />
Volume 5 1, No. 3<br />
June 2000<br />
Idum is published six times a year and mailed with<br />
MycologM, the <strong>Society</strong>'s journal. Submit both text and<br />
graphics (MSWord [ 10-point Ties font], MSExcel, *.a,<br />
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<strong>America</strong><br />
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Pacific Northwest Mycology Senice<br />
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MSA Oficers<br />
President: Linda M Kohn<br />
Dept <strong>of</strong> Botany,<br />
University <strong>of</strong> Toronto<br />
Mississauga, Ontario CAN L5L 1C6<br />
905.828.3997<br />
kohn@credit.erin.utoronto.ca<br />
President-Elect: Orson K Miller, Jr<br />
Dept Biology, Virginia Polytechnic & Slate U<br />
Blacksburg, Virginia USA 24601<br />
540.23 1.6765<br />
oder@vt.edu<br />
Vice President: Timothy J Baroni<br />
PO Box 2000 Dept Biological Sciences, SUNY College<br />
Cortland, NY USA 13045<br />
607.753.2725<br />
baronitj@snycorva.cortland.edu<br />
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USDA, ARS, SRRC<br />
1100 Robert E Lee Blvd<br />
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504.286.4361<br />
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Dept <strong>of</strong> Botany & Plant Pathology<br />
Cordley Hall 2082<br />
Oregon State University<br />
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An Invitation to Jdn MSA<br />
THE MYCOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA<br />
2000 MEMBERSHIP FORM<br />
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pr<strong>of</strong>essor or school)<br />
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